Hospitals in pursuit of excellence

Reduction in Health Care-Associated C. diff Infections

Roseland Community Hospital joined the Illinois Foundation for Quality Healthcare, the quality improvement organization for the state of Illinois, and the Illinois Department of Public Health in an effort to reduce health care-associated C. diff infections by 20 percent. A multidisciplinary infection control rapid cycle team was formulated, opportunities for improvement were identified, and strategies to address opportunities were implemented. Adherence to the changes was closely monitored and an evaluation of the program reflected a 71 percent decrease in overall infections.

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.)