A Quality Improvement Project to Increase Adherence to a Pain, Agitation, and Delirium Protocol in the Intensive Care Unit

The objective of this project is to determine whether a quality improvement project can increase adherence to an existing pain, agitation, and delirium (PAD) protocol for enhanced patient outcomes. Methods Chart audits were conducted to determine baseline compliance, use of the PAD protocol was measured, and the type of medications administered to each mechanically ventilated patient was assessed. Using the Knowledge-to-Action framework, a multidisciplinary, multidimensional educational module was then developed and implemented that included an online tutorial, point-of-care reminders, written materials, and verbal coaching. A 3-month postimplementation chart audit was conducted to determine whether increased protocol competence was achieved. Results Protocol use unexpectedly decreased from 74% to 41% (P
Source: Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing - Category: Nursing Tags: Leadership DIMENSION Source Type: research