What information should a nurse include in a report to demonstrate quality improvement at a long-term care facility?

Including the statistic of a 12% reduction in urinary tract infections over the past six months provides concrete evidence of a measurable improvement in patient outcomes and care quality. This kind of data is critical when demonstrating quality improvement efforts because it indicates that specific interventions or changes in practices have had a direct positive impact on the health and well-being of residents. Such metrics not only highlight successful initiatives but also serve to inform future strategies in patient care.

In contrast, hiring more nursing staff, obtaining funding for renovations, or establishing new meal plans, while relevant to the operational aspects of the facility, do not directly quantify improvements in patient health outcomes. These actions are important but do not provide the same level of clear, measurable impact on quality of care that the reduction in infections does. Quality improvement is best showcased through data that reflect tangible changes in resident safety and health, making the first choice the most compelling indicator of positive progress.