An improvement project within urological care
International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance
ISSN: 0952-6862
Article publication date: 11 May 2015
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe staff experiences in an on-going improvement project regarding patients with ureteral stones.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative descriptive study based on eight group interviews and 48 narratives, was performed. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured by using a well-documented improvement process method during six months.
Findings
The results formed three categories: an absent comprehensive view; complexity; and vulnerability within the organisation. A holistic perspective regarding urological care at the micro-, meso- and macro-levels is needed to improve planning and caring processes.
Research limitations/implications
This study includes one team (six members, different health professionals) within the same urology department.
Practical implications
Results show that staff need information, such as guidelines and support throughout the improvement work to deliver high-quality care. Moreover, there is a need for evidence-based guidelines at national level to support improvement work.
Social implications
Healthcare staff need to pay attention to all team member needs to improve urological care. Organisational and managerial aspect are needed to support clear and common goals regarding healthcare improvement work.
Originality/value
Urological improvement projects, generally, are lacking, which is why this study is important to improve nephrolithiasis patient care.
Keywords
Citation
Khatami, A. and Rosengren, K. (2015), "An improvement project within urological care", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 28 No. 4, pp. 412-422. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHCQA-10-2014-0104
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited