Hospitals in pursuit of excellence

Kishwaukee Community Hospital

The Kishwaukee Community Hospital nurses and physicians recognized the opportunity to improve care by eliminating intensive care unit catheter-related blood stream infections. The project included baseline measurement and understanding of causes of variation, implementation of new evidence-based processes, defined process measures, and education sessions for nurses and medical staff. Since initiation of these measures, the infection rates have steadily declined with zero infections in 13 months.

This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

• Safe
• Timely
• Effective
• Efficient
• Equitable
• Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)