CLABSI--Creating Lasting Actions So Patients can be Safe

This project utilized a failure mode effects analysis methodology to examine why critical care unit central line-associated blood stream infection rates were not zero. A gap analysis was completed and utilized by the team to objectively prioritize processes that needed revision. Flow charts of each patient care unit's processes were used to identify variances in insertion/set-up of central lines. Infection control utilized the National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance/National Healthcare Safety Network benchmarks and concluded that the necessary goal was to achieve zero infections due to the small volume of device days at the hospital.

This project utilized a failure mode effects analysis methodology to examine why critical care unit central line-associated blood stream infection rates were not zero. A gap analysis was completed and utilized by the team to objectively prioritize processes that needed revision. Flow charts of each patient care unit's processes were used to identify variances in insertion/set-up of central lines. Infection control utilized the National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance/National Healthcare Safety Network benchmarks and concluded that the necessary goal was to achieve zero infections due to the small volume of device days at the hospital.

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This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

  • Safe
  • Timely
  • Effective
  • Efficient
  • Equitable
  • Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)