Prevention of Post-Operative Aspiration Pneumonia of the Inpatient Population

The goal was to decrease the number of patients negatively affected by experiencing a post-operative aspiration pneumonia which increases length of stay and leads to poorer overall patient outcomes.

After identifying key stakeholders, the team developed education plans for staff, patients and family which included thorough monitoring, risk assessments, dietary protocols, and aspiration precautions. Education specifically focused on a 30/30/30 rule: elevate HOB at 30 degree angle; patient must stay upright 30 minutes after meals; and reverse trendelenburg at 30 degrees.

The incidence of post-operative aspiration pneumonia decreased from 2.05-2.22 percent to 1.19 percent. Average number of cases per month pre-education 30/30/30 rule was 6.58-7.3. Post-rule education showed an average number of cases per month of 4.0.

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.)