Which clinical scenario would prompt the NP to evaluate a quality improvement process change?

An increased incidence of postoperative sternal wound infections serves as a critical indicator that a quality improvement process change is necessary. This scenario suggests a potential issue in patient care or procedural adherence that may negatively impact patient outcomes. Monitoring surgical site infections is essential, as they can lead to increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. A rise in infection rates signals that there may be underlying factors, such as inadequate sterile techniques, insufficient postoperative care, or potential issues within the surgical team’s protocols, that need to be addressed.

In contrast, high patient satisfaction with surveys implies that the current processes might be functioning well from the patient's perspective, while stable attendance rates indicate consistency in follow-up care but don’t necessarily highlight quality issues. Decreased wait times in the clinic may reflect operational efficiency but does not directly address patient safety or clinical outcomes. In quality improvement efforts, prioritizing areas where patient health is at risk — such as an uptick in postoperative infections — is crucial for enhancing overall care quality.