Clinical Quality Improvement and Quality Improvement Research

Abstract

Purpose: This article is intended to serve as a tutorial for speech-language pathology and audiology clinicians and researchers interested in pursuing quality improvement (QI) practice and research. Method: Through a number of library database searches, author expertise, and first-hand experiences, we compiled this reference covering the history and landscape of clinical QI practice and QI research. We have included and explained definitions of QI activities and provided an overview of models and methods utilized in the implementation of QI programs. Drawing from scholarly literature on the QI process, we have included tools that should be useful for those clinicians and researchers pursuing QI projects. This article includes some examples of QI projects specific to speech-language pathology and audiology. One highlighted example examined a hospital process of identifying newly admitted patients at risk for communication breakdowns during patient-provider information exchange. Benefits and opportunities associated with QI activities are addressed, as well as barriers and facilitators. Conclusion: QI practices and QI research are well within the scope of activities in which speech-language pathologists and audiologists should be engaged. QI is now recognized as a legitimate source of new knowledge and a direct route to improving outcomes and delivery of patient care across clinical settings.