Nurse-Led Clinical Pathway Development for Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Quality Improvement Approach

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Quality Improvement
• Cardiac Surgery Care

Background:

• Cardiac surgery patients often experience prolonged hospital stays, delayed extubation, and limited post-operative mobility.
• Standardizing care pathways is essential for improving patient outcomes and hospital efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a nurse-led clinical pathway for cardiac surgery patients at Royal Columbian Hospital.
• To standardize care processes and improve key clinical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A systematic quality improvement project was undertaken.
• Clinical outcomes were benchmarked to identify areas for enhancement.
• Collaboration with nursing leaders and stakeholder consultations were integral.

Main Results:

• Identified opportunities for improving early ambulation and timely extubation.
• Aimed to reduce mortality, readmission rates, and length of hospital stay.
• Highlighted the importance of strategic leadership in implementing change.

Conclusions:

• Nurse-led initiatives can effectively standardize care and improve outcomes for cardiac surgery patients.
• Strategic leadership and collaborative efforts are vital for successful large-scale change in healthcare.
• The developed pathway offers a model for enhancing post-operative recovery and reducing hospital resource utilization.