In this article, a quality management plan to prevent any further occurrence of the problem in the first scenario would be discussed.
What
A health professional plays important roles in improving and maintaining quality of health care. On one hand, it is the responsibility of a health professional to maintain the standard of their own practice. In radiology department, a radiographer helps to maintain the quality of health care by improving image quality, keeping radiation dose as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA), providing efficient and timely service, upgrading technique, successfully assessing risk factors, data protection, etc. (Littlefair, 2015) In terms of radiation safety, radiographers should consider reducing radiation …show more content…
Generally, the purpose of a QM plan is to ensure that the health care services provided are safe, effective, appropriate, patient-focused, efficient and accessible (NSW. Department of Health., 2005). In addition, a QM plan also aims to improve the competence of health professionals, continuity of care, information management, quality-related education and accreditation of health services (NSW. Department of Health., 2005). Since NSW Health is committed to four goals, including, healthier people, fairer access, quality health care and better value, the ultimate goal of QM is to improve the outcomes of health management, and improve those processes which are highly correlated with outcome (NSW. Department of Health., 2005). Specifically, a QM plan aims to provide high-quality health care services to the members of the community, to employ well-trained professionals, to maintain a high safety record and to provide a customer-friendly environment (Littlefair, 2015).
In general, a QM plan involves practically establishing a document, setting out the specific quality practices, resources and sequence of activities relevant to a particular product, service, contract or project. The activities involved in constructing a QM plan include defining, measuring, analysing, improving and controlling, which is known …show more content…
Department of Health., 2002).
1. Project Phase
In this case, the process that needs improving would be defined. As reported, one third of the lead coats are detected with holes. Thus, complaints data are present to support the assumption that there is a problem of the protective devices in operating theatre. However, a literature review should be performed to identify national and international best practice for radiation protective devices (NSW. Department of Health., 2002). The criteria of qualified devices need to be identified based on evidence, knowledge and resources. Ideally, a guidance team should be formed to support the project team. The guidance team should include high-level mangers with decision-making authority, while the project team should include people with basic knowledge of radiation safety. Upon discussion with team members, the mission statement should be established according to the SMART rule, which refers to specific, measurable, appropriate, result oriented and time scheduled (NSW. Department of Health., 2002). Last but not least, the appropriate measurement of the data would be