Getting started with quality improvement
Anaesthetics and critical care projects
As a trainee in NHS Tayside, engaging in Quality Improvement (QI), audit and research is crucial for both patient care and your professional development. Here’s how to get started:
Understanding Quality Improvement & QI
QI aims to improve healthcare processes proactively, creating lasting change. Audits, on the other hand, review past practices against standards to identify gaps.
Choosing a Project
Identify an area needing improvement. If unsure, explore audit ideas from the Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA) website, where topics are categorised by subspecialty, here. Align your project with departmental priorities for maximum impact. Seek advice from consultants or senior trainees with an interest in a subspeciality you hope to pursue.
Setting Aims and Objectives
Set SMART objectives—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. Determine how success will be measured and ensure your changes lead to genuine improvements.
Involving Stakeholders
QI is a collaborative effort. Engage peers and consultants early on to gain support and diverse perspectives. Communication and collaboration are key to success.
Resources and Support
NHS Tayside offers numerous resources to support your QI efforts, including workshops, mentorship programs and data analysis tools. Use these resources to enhance your project. They can be found on the intranet.
Next Steps
Once your plan is solid, discuss it with a relevant consultant, all projects should have a named consultant attached to them before registering and seeking approvals.