Review of a bronchial hygiene evaluation program

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Therapy
• Healthcare Management
• Patient Care Optimization

Background:

• Increased demand for bronchial hygiene therapy led to unadministered treatments.
• Concerns existed regarding the necessity of a significant portion of ordered therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a program where trained respiratory therapists assess the need for bronchial hygiene therapy in non-intensive care patients.
• To improve the efficiency and appropriateness of bronchial hygiene therapy delivery.

Main Methods:

• A protocol involving medical record review, physical assessment, care plan development, and regular re-evaluation was established.
• Specially trained respiratory therapists were authorized to evaluate therapy orders.

Main Results:

• Improved documentation of the necessity for bronchial hygiene therapy.
• Significant reduction in the total number of procedures performed.
• Marked decrease in total charges for bronchial hygiene therapy, even with rising hospital costs.
• All critical care respiratory services were administered, and over 90% of non-ICU bronchial hygiene therapy was delivered as ordered.

Conclusions:

• The program successfully optimized bronchial hygiene therapy delivery, ensuring appropriate care while reducing costs.
• Enhanced role and improved morale for respiratory therapists.
• High satisfaction reported by medical staff, patients, and families.