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Quality circles in the public health sector: implementation and effect
J A Schmele1, M E Allen, S Butler
1University of Oklahoma College of Nursing, Oklahoma City 73190.
Public Health Nursing (Boston, Mass.)
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Quality circles (QCs) were implemented in community health nursing to improve care quality. Training nurses in this problem-solving approach led to positive changes in morale and quality management.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Healthcare Management
- Organizational Psychology
Background:
- Quality circles (QCs) are established in healthcare but underutilized in community health nursing.
- A literature gap exists regarding the application of QCs in public health nursing settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement Quality Circles (QCs) within the public health nursing sector of a southern central state.
- To train approximately 250 supervisors and staff nurses in QC methodology for systematic problem-solving.
- To address concerns related to the quality of care in community health nursing.
Main Methods:
- A service/education project focused on implementing QCs.
- Training approximately 250 public health nurses and supervisors in participative group problem-solving.
- Utilizing evaluation tools such as the Science Research Associates' attitude scale and the quality management maturity index.
Main Results:
- The implementation of the QC program demonstrated positive changes in the evaluated metrics.
- Supervisory responses to the QC program were favorable.
- The study indicated a positive influence of QCs on morale and quality management maturity.
Conclusions:
- Quality Circles are an effective participative approach for community health nursing.
- Implementing QC training can systematically improve the quality of care and nurse morale.
- Further research should explore QC sustainability and broader impact in public health nursing.
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