Maximizing care outcomes of a patient with impaired bladder function: a PI project in a rehabilitation unit

At Jamaica Hospital Medical Center Rehabilitation Unit, approximately 50 percent of patients have impaired bladder function due to disease and trauma. In 1996, the rehabilitation staff identified an opportunity to improve care outcomes of patients with impaired bladder function. Using five steps for performance improvement from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, a team consisting of a physician, nurse, therapist, and psychologist was formed to explore strategies for improving care of these patients. The goal was to investigate the advantages of using noninvasive devices in maximizing care outcomes.