Achieving Quality Through Evidence-Based Practice and Process Improvement Synergy: The EQUiPP Framework.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Process Improvement Methodologies

Background:

• Traditional quality improvement focuses on process, neglecting practice elements essential for quality care.
• Existing methods are insufficient to guarantee desired patient outcomes.
• A novel approach integrating both practice and process is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce the Evidence-based Quality in Practice and Process (EQUiPP) Framework.
• Provide a collaborative structure for identifying, implementing, and sustaining best practices.
• Enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of quality improvement initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A consensus-based approach was employed by a team of experts.
• The framework development was informed by feedback from a precursor model's evaluation.
• The precursor model underwent expert review and a beta test workshop with real-world scenarios.

Main Results:

• The EQUiPP Framework synergistically integrates Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) and process improvement.
• It guides collaborative efforts to identify and implement effective solutions.
• The framework aims to reduce ineffective changes, ensuring solutions are derived correctly the first time.

Conclusions:

• The EQUiPP Framework is a novel tool for achieving and sustaining quality outcomes.
• It aligns EBP and process improvement for collaborative application by clinicians and students.
• The framework facilitates efficient and effective implementation and sustainment of best practices.