Continuous Reduction of Hypoglycemia Incidence Post-Endoscopic Polypectomy Through Quality Control Circle Implementation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to reduce the incidence of hypoglycemia following endoscopic polypectomy by implementing Quality Control Circle (QCC) interventions.

METHODS

Quality Control Circle (QCC) empowered clinicians to implement PDCA-driven protocol refinements, standardizing care processes to mitigate hypoglycemia risk. Establish a QCC team to investigate the current incidence of hypoglycemia in post-polypectomy patients, conduct a root cause analysis to identify the true causes, formulate corresponding countermeasures, and implement them in phases. The study was conducted in two phases: before-QCC (517 patients from March 13 to May 31, 2023) and after-QCC (1090 patients from June 1 to November 30, 2023). The primary outcome was the incidence of hypoglycemia.

RESULTS

Before QCC implementation, the incidence of hypoglycemia was 6.63%. Following the introduction of QCC interventions, the incidence significantly decreased to 2.94% (<0.01). Monthly data revealed a continuous decline in hypoglycemia incidence, with rates dropping from 4.12% in June to 1.47% in November, and the results are statistically significant (<0.001). Other confounding factors, including age, gender, education level, diabetes history, polyp size, site, and fasting duration, were not significantly associated with the outcome (>0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study effectively reduced the incidence of hypoglycemia in patients following endoscopic polypectomy through the implementation of QCC activities, significantly enhancing patient safety and treatment outcomes. The successful implementation of the project validated the important role of QCC in continuous quality improvement, providing valuable experience and methods for future clinical nursing management.