Total quality management in the critical care environment. A primer.

Quality management has become issue No. 1 in organizations throughout the country. Hospitals have joined this crusade and are embarking on their own programs to maintain their competitive edge. TQM or CQI has been identified as showing great success in achieving quality. As TQM systems begin developing in hospitals, CCUs will be called on to join in these efforts. By understanding what TQM is, how it is used, and how it can be applied, CCU staffs will be able to incorporate TQM in their own practices. By choosing projects carefully, using scientific measurement in clinical and nonclinical areas, and developing a team-based approach, the CCU staff can achieve improved clinical outcomes as well as improved procedures that result in better staff and patient satisfaction.