Learning Objective #1: Describe the process used to introduce nursing faculty to continuous quality improvement

Learning Objective #2: Discuss a framework for assessing processes and outcomes of nursing education

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Background: This presentation will discuss a case study method of a quality improvement program in a school of nursing using a Leadership Guide as its frame work. The Leadership Guide was used as the framework by which to evaluate our curriculum framework and to transform our governance structure. The School of Nursing's strategic plan provided the basis for our Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities and for feedback and change that are essential to the process. The program evaluation used the criteria and improvement guidelines postulated by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The systematic implementation of improvement guidelines was used as an approach to collect, analyze, and strategize on findings.

Aim of Study: The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the CQI program which was implemented by the School of Nursing and supported by continuous and systematic monitoring by each School of Nursing committee and by the administrative units.

Method: The method used was a case study model which integrates the work of all the School of Nursing committees and administrative units.

Findings: The committee has addressed many indicators which are a culmination of identified areas of improvement by each SON faculty committee and administration and are reflected in the SON strategic plan. At the end of the academic year the CQI committee reviews each report submitted by the committees and prepares a final report to the Dean of the SON.

Conclusion: We realize that CQI is an ongoing process which requires faculty “by-in”. The process involves continuous refinement and follow-through of the identified outcome measures from the strategic plan. Although we continue to identify and address problems by utilizing the CQI process we've come to realize that emphasizing a proactive approach is paramount to success.