Last week at the medical center quality operations oversight committee, there were several presentations of note:

Update on Autopsy

Dr. Presnell gave an update on autopsy rates and findings. Our current rates are dropping over time; however, when we do an autopsy, a preliminary autopsy report is available within 1 day and the final autopsy report within 5 days. This is incredible performance compared to national standards. All clinicians should review the Unexpected Findings on slides 8 and 9.

Update on Ventricular Assist Device Program

Dr. Peura provided the latest information on the VAD program quality improvement plans. The team has achieved a lower length of stay, higher survival rates despite high growth. Not presented, but they also are achieving this greater quality at a lower cost.

Patient Safety Rounds

Sheila Scarbrough presented a brief update on Patient Safety Rounds, which are now hospital wide with a combination of area leaders and senior leaders. The team is working on faster feedback to employees and medical staff regarding issues encountered on rounds. Many improvements have already been instituted.

Sterile Processing Department Update

Sally Potts gave an update on the latest improvements in the Sterile Process Department. Much improvement has been put in place in the last 8 weeks. A formal plan was presented and there is a weekly accountability meeting being put in place to ensure the plan is accomplished.

Pressure Ulcers IMPROVE

Phil Botham reviewed the pressure ulcer IMPROVE project. Much has been accomplished with the acquired pressure ulcer rate dropping from 16% to 4%. However, we cannot be satisfied with this improvement, as we still have room to further improve.

This is evidence of the numerous continuous improvement activities occurring on this campus. I thank each of the teams working on the above projects. Keep up the great work!

Thank you for the great care you provide every day!