This past year we initiated several methods to identify areas where we could improve. Monthly, one person at the ASC is assigned to conduct a LAT (“leadership accountability tool”) survey. Included in the various observations of the environment, documentation and processes throughout the center is the secret shopper observation of 20 incidents of hand hygiene. Staff members and physicians are observed to see not only if they wash or use antiseptic hand rub on their hands, but also if they are using the proper technique. In addition, an outside observer is brought in quarterly.
We follow the World Health Organization hand hygiene steps and have posted those in various locations. Improving hand hygiene is one of our company’s major quality goals and through observation, education and team spirit, we show excellent compliance in the ASC.
Read more guidance on patient safety:
– One Way to Address New Joint Commission Standard on Measuring Surgical Site Infection Rates
– 10 Steps for Analysis of Quality Improvement Projects
– 5 Ways to Improve Your ASC’s Quality of Care and Achieve Great Accreditation Survey Results
