This assignment is intended to improve the student’s knowledge, understanding, and use of
Quality Improvement (QI) in nursing. In addition, the information reviewed for this assignment
will support and enhance performance on the “Change Project” assignment in NURS 4224.
Submission format/requirements: Six to ten page APA formatted research paper (word
document, 12-point font, 1-inch margins, page numbers, header with name and submission
date, reference page with 3-5 sources) entitled Quality Improvement: Principles and Application.
Include the following content in your paper:
Principles of QI
• Describe “quality” in terms of healthcare.
• Distinguish the benefits of healthcare quality.
• Compare and contrast fundamental principles of Quality Assurance and Quality
Improvement.
QI Processes and Methods
• Analyze various quality improvement methods.
• Describe the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) method and discuss an evidence-based
example.
• Describe Havelock’s Six Phases of Planned Change and discuss an evidence-based
change.
Using Data to Make Decisions
• Detail the value of data and measurement in healthcare quality.
• Interpret root cause analysis.
• Discuss essential QI tools and when to use them.
Application
• Differentiate Nursing’s role in healthcare quality
