Overview:

This program introduces and explains the background, philosophy, and workings of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) and relates it to specific applications in hospitals and other acute care settings. The differences between CQI and Quality Assurance are discussed, along with the importance of leadership, training, empowerment and removing barriers. Means of data collection and tools for interpreting data are presented. Vignettes show how an interdisciplinary team uses the CQI process to improve pain management in the hospital.