Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following is a step in the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) process?

1. Define Patient Criteria

2. Implement the PDCA Style

3. Conduct Initial Assessments

4. Schedule Staff Training

The correct answer is: Implement the PDCA Style

The PDCA cycle, which stands for Plan-Do-Check-Act, is a fundamental framework within the Continuous Quality Improvement process. This method emphasizes iterative improvement through structured phases. In the "Plan" phase, goals are established, and strategies for improvement are identified. Next, in the "Do" phase, those strategies are implemented on a small scale to test their effectiveness. Then comes the "Check" phase, where the results of the implementation are evaluated against the expected outcomes to see if the intervention led to the desired improvement. Finally, in the "Act" phase, successful strategies are standardized and implemented more broadly, while unsuccessful ones are revised. By utilizing the PDCA style, organizations can continuously refine their processes, fostering an environment where quality improvement is an ongoing commitment. This makes it a cornerstone step in CQI practices, as it systematically drives enhancements in healthcare settings, including those involved in dialysis procedures. The other steps mentioned, such as defining patient criteria, conducting assessments, and scheduling staff training, are important but serve more as supportive or preparatory actions within the broader framework of quality improvement rather than the specific methodology that focuses on ongoing enhancements.