Documenting Physical Therapy Dose for Individuals With Cerebral Palsy: A Quality Improvement Initiative

Pediatr Phys Ther. 2019 Jul;31(3):234-241. doi: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000000614.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the quality improvement (QI) activities used to improve treatment dose documentation for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) and to discuss insights gained from this project.

Methods: Global and smart aims were established and interventions were tested from January 2017 through February 2018 using Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles. Performance was tracked overtime using run and control charts.

Results: The QI initiative resulted in a sustainable increase in percentage of dose elements present in the electronic medical record from 78% to 94%. Key drivers of improvement included (1) knowledge and awareness of dose, (2) clinician buy-in, (3) effective engagement of child and parent, (4) therapist knowledge of evidence-based treatments, (5) transparent and reliable documentation system, and (6) audit and clinician feedback.

Conclusions: QI methods provided the tools to improve workflow and increase dose documentation for individuals with CP.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cerebral Palsy / rehabilitation*
  • Child
  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Feedback
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Knowledge
  • Patient Participation
  • Physical Therapy Modalities / standards*
  • Quality Improvement / organization & administration*
  • Quality Improvement / standards