Using six sigma methodology to reduce the Number of Patient with Skin Damage in In-continence patient

Abstract

Background

Six Sigma methodology is a data management process that can be used to achieve a goal of near perfection in process performance.  The data from Prevalence Pressure found that incontinence was the major contributing factor in the development of pressure ulcers 89.4 - 94.4 %  

Methodology

                The Six Sigma methodology consisting of 5 steps, being: Define; Measure; Analyze; Improve and Control (DMAIC methodology) was used to successfully improve our process in the reduction of the number incontinent patients with Skin Damage.  A skin audit of patients over a 2 week period in 12 units of a tertiary university hospital found that there was, on average, 17 ‘skin damage’ patients per day.  Twelve key inputs that affect the skin care process for incontinence patient were identified.  In the  analysis phase, three input ‘keys’ were identified as being a critical means to improve process.  These were identified as:  Nursing skill and experience; The treatment plan and Product/s used.  A control plan was set up and implemented which began with data collection and analysis and continued over a 4 month period.

Result

Within 4 months after implementation, there was quite a noticeable reduction of skin damage in incontinence patient, from 17 ‘skin damage’ patients per day to 2.4 per day.

Conclusion   : It was concluded that the Six Sigma was instrumental in successfully improving our process of reducing skin damage in incontinence patients.