Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2026
12:08
Improving IV Insulin Administration in a Community Hospital
Published on: June 11, 2012
Facilitating process changes in meal delivery and radiological testing to improve inpatient insulin timing using six
J Jay Yamamoto1, Bill Malatestinic, Angela Lehman
1Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana 46285, USA. yamamoto_jonathan_jay@lilly.com
Quality Management in Health Care
|June 11, 2010
Summary
This study improved inpatient insulin administration timing using Lean Six Sigma. Standardizing meal delivery and optimizing radiology schedules ensured timely insulin delivery for better patient glucose management.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Process Improvement
- Clinical Operations
Background:
- Inpatient insulin administration timing is critical for glycemic control.
- Current processes for meal delivery and radiology scheduling often disrupt insulin timing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance the timeliness of inpatient insulin administration.
- To optimize coordination between insulin delivery, meal service, and radiology procedures.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Lean Six Sigma methodology for process evaluation and improvement.
- A multidisciplinary team collaborated to analyze and redesign food delivery and radiology scheduling.
Main Results:
- Standardized meal delivery schedules and tracking improved insulin administration accuracy.
- Enhanced communication and restricted procedure scheduling during mealtimes reduced disruptions.
- Achieved institutional goals for on-time meal delivery and appropriate insulin/radiology scheduling.
Conclusions:
- Lean Six Sigma implementation successfully improved inpatient insulin administration timing.
- Process standardization and interdepartmental communication are key to optimizing clinical workflows.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Introduction to Statistical Process Control
Statistical Process Control (SPC) is a method used to monitor and control quality within processes, particularly in manufacturing and service delivery, by employing statistical methods. SPC aims to distinguish between natural (common cause) variation and variation due to specific changes or events (special cause), allowing for timely improvements and sustained quality. The control chart, a pivotal tool in SPC, visually displays data over time alongside a central line of upper and lower control...
01:15Methods of Documentation VI: Case Management Model
The case management model is a multidisciplinary approach that involves healthcare professionals from diverse disciplines, such as physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, and pharmacists, working collaboratively to address the various needs of patients. Each healthcare professional brings unique expertise and perspectives, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition and tailoring treatment plans accordingly.
For example, a patient with a chronic illness...
For example, a patient with a chronic illness...
01:14SBAR II: Application of SBAR
SBAR is an effective communication tool used by healthcare professionals to communicate patient information accurately. SBAR stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation. For a better understanding, an example is given below.
SBAR Report from a Nurse to a Health Care Provider
S: "Hello, Dr. Smith. This is Jane, RN, from the Med Surg unit. I am calling to tell you about Ms. White in Room 210, who is experiencing increased pain and redness at her incision site. Her recent...
SBAR Report from a Nurse to a Health Care Provider
S: "Hello, Dr. Smith. This is Jane, RN, from the Med Surg unit. I am calling to tell you about Ms. White in Room 210, who is experiencing increased pain and redness at her incision site. Her recent...