Primer part 3 - evaluating, disseminating and sustaining a laboratory quality improvement project

There is a lack of resources on how to prepare, execute, and sustain quality improvement (QI) initiatives in laboratory medicine. The project goal was to bridge this gap with the creation of a novel primer series. In this third and final primer, we discuss fundamental concepts related to project evaluation, dissemination, and sustainability. We also introduce useful tools to successfully assess and monitor QI project success over time, including run charts and statistical process control charts as well as a well established sustainability model. These concepts are illustrated by following through on the final results from our real-world clinical vignette related to serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) utilization. The impact of interventions discussed in earlier articles of the primer series was evaluated over a one-year period. Data analysis showed there was a >99% reduction in repeat SPEP testing in less than 75 days. The secondary aim to reduce testing in patients <50 years was not met. By piecing together the central aspects of QI methodology and challenges encountered from project initiation to dissemination through a laboratory lens, this series aims to support engagement of clinical laboratory leaders in QI initiatives. This is essential to build a strong culture of QI within the clinical laboratory and beyond.