ACPC Quality Network - QI Science Training (2017-2018)-Non-CE-Lesson 2: Understanding and Learning from Variation

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The talk emphasizes the complexity of quality improvement (QI) in healthcare, underscoring the importance of continual learning beyond basic QI training. Live learning sessions are deemed vital for shared learning among participants. The speaker stresses that change in operations is challenging and improvement science is intricate, going beyond elementary QI concepts. The focus shifts to understanding variation through Dr. Deming’s theory of profound knowledge, highlighting variation in practice and using healthcare examples.<br /><br />Two types of variation are discussed: intended (purposeful and planned, such as varying treatment based on patient needs) and unintended (arising from inconsistencies in system processes rather than deliberate choices). The importance of visualizing and understanding data over time through run and control charts is emphasized to identify variations in processes. The talk highlights the concept of common cause (systematic variation) versus special cause (unexpected factors) and the importance of distinguishing between them to enable effective process improvement.<br /><br />Examples from surveys at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital illustrate how data visualization can help identify patterns and focus improvements. The speaker encourages participants to engage in QI initiatives and highlights opportunities for sharing and learning at upcoming conferences.

Keywords

quality improvement

healthcare

variation

Deming's theory

data visualization

process improvement

Cincinnati Children's Hospital