Efectos de la COVID-19 en la calidad de la atención de los servicios de salud en Colombia: Revisión de literatura / Effects of COVID-19 on the quality of health care services in Colombia: a literature review / Efeitos da covid-19 na qualidade dos serviços de saúde na colômbia: revisão da literatura

Introducción: La pandemia por COVID-19 ha afectado significativamente la calidad de los servicios de cuidado de la salud. Objetivo: Analizar los efectos en los atributos de la calidad en salud de los servicios de atención de enfermedades diferentes a la COVID-19 en Colombia, durante el periodo 2020-2022. Materiales y métodos: Se analizaron 24 artículos de alcance nacional y otros específicos de departamentos como Antioquia, Córdoba, Santander y Cundinamarca. Resultados: La pandemia por COVID-19 impactó la calidad de los servicios en la atención de enfermedades como cáncer, accidentes cerebrovasculares y de eventos como la interrupción voluntaria del embarazo. Conclusión: La calidad de la salud se vio afectada en todas sus dimensiones durante las fases de la pandemia, especialmente en la población con enfermedades crónicas y relacionadas con la salud infantil y materna. Además, se destacaron respuestas como el uso de la telemedicina y de la atención domiciliaria para contribuir a la calidad de la salud en Colombia.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the quality of health care services. Objective: To analyze the effects of COVID-19 on the quality of health care services focused on treating diseases other than COVID-19 in Colombia during the 2020-2022 period. Materials and methods: 24 articles were analyzed, which included some studies focused on national issues and others specific to the departments of Antioquia, Cordoba, Santander, and Cundinamarca. Results: The COVID-19 pandemic affected the quality of health services caring for diseases such as cancer, strokes, and critical circumstances like voluntary termination of pregnancy. Conclusion: All dimensions of health care were affected during the pandemic, especially impacting populations with chronic diseases and diseases related to child and maternal health. It is important to highlight that telemedicine and home care contributed to improving the quality of health in Colombia.

Introdução: A pandemia de COVID-19 afetou significativamente a qualidade dos serviços de saúde. Objetivo: Analisar os efeitos da COVID-19 nos atributos de qualidade em saúde dos serviços de atenção a outras doenças além da COVID-19 na Colômbia, durante o período 2020-2022. Materiais e métodos: foram analisados 24 artigos de âmbito nacional e outros específicos de departamentos como Antioquia, Córdoba, Santander e Cundinamarca. Resultados: A pandemia da COVID-19 impactou a qualidade dos serviços no cuidado de doenças como câncer, acidente vascular cerebral e eventos como a interrupção voluntária da gravidez. Conclusão: A qualidade da saúde foi afetada em todas as suas dimensões durante as fases da pandemia, especialmente na população com doenças crônicas e doenças relacionadas à saúde infantil e materna. Além disso, foram destacadas respostas como o uso da telemedicina e do atendimento domiciliar para contribuir para a qualidade da saúde na Colômbia.

Mitigating the environmental concerns through total quality management and green manufacturing practices.

This study seeks to explore the intricate relationship between total quality management (TQM) and environmental performance (EP), incorporating the mediating role of green manufacturing practices (GMPs). Additionally, the study examines the moderating impact of environmental strategy on the connections between GMPs and EP. Data were collected through a questionnaire distributed to managers of manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and were subjected to analysis using structural equation modeling. The results reveal a positive and significant impact of TQM on EP. Furthermore, the findings suggest that GMPs partially mediate the association between TQM and EP, while the anticipated moderating effect of environmental strategy between GMPs and EP is also supported in this study. These outcomes hold valuable implications for enhancing the environmental performance of SMEs through the integration of TQM and GMPs. It is important to note that this research exclusively focuses on manufacturing SMEs; therefore, future studies should extend their examination of this concept to other industries. Additionally, the study's findings provide a valuable roadmap for SME administrators aiming to elevate their environmental performance.

Content analysis of succession planning in nursing management: a qualitative study.

AIM: The identification and development of managerial talents for nursing manager succession in the future should be a concern for organisations, as the concept of succession planning has not been seriously addressed in nursing. This study aimed to explore managers' perceptions of the concept of succession planning in nursing management. DESIGN: This qualitative study used a conventional content analysis approach. METHODS: Participants included 15 nursing managers, who were purposively selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. After obtaining ethical approval, data were collected through semistructured interviews. MAXQDA software was used for data management, and data analysis was performed using the seven-stage method by Graneheim and Lundman. The credibility and dependability of the data were assessed using Guba and Lincoln's criteria. RESULTS: The main categories identified in this study were barriers to succession planning, facilitators, succession planning requirements, contextualisation, succession planning cycle, the dynamism of the successor organisation and consequences of lack of succession planning. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that organisations plan and adopt policies to develop qualified personnel management in nursing organisations and appoint these individuals to critical managerial positions.

Green supply chain management practices and triple bottom line performance: Insights from an emerging economy with a mediating and moderating model.

The current study explores the dynamics of business practices in Pakistan's Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This research focusing on how "green supply chain management" (GSCM), Industry 4.0 technologies (IND), total quality management (TQM) and sustainable performance (SP) are interconnected. The study collected data from 382 SMEs owners and managers and data analysis was conducted utilizing by SPSS and SmartPLS. The results indicate that employ GSCM pattern has constructive impact on SMEs overall performance in terms of their social and financial aspects. Interestingly IND act as intermediaries among GSCM and sustainable performance underscoring their potential to translate sustainability efforts into outcomes. Moreover, our survey reveals that TQM have a crucial function in enriching the relationship between Industry 4.0 technologies and sustainable performance by executing as a moderator. It further highlighting the value of adopting a quality focused approach to maximize the causal factor of advancements on sustainability output. The findings of this survey research offering insights for practitioners, SMEs, and policy makers alike by highlighting the significance of integrating practices such as GSCM, IND and effective quality management to enhance SME efficiency. These outcomes further contribute to an understanding of the mechanics at play, within SMEs while offering guidance for organizations maneuvering the changing landscape of sustainable business practices and IND.

Revolutionising Quality Management in the Oral Pathology Laboratory: A Deep Dive Into the Six Sigma Methodology.

Six Sigma Foundations is a statistical standard that indicates an exceptionally high level of quality, along with a customer satisfaction management approach that intends to lower error rates and boost process efficiency. The Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) approach is a fundamental component of Six Sigma and provides an organised framework for process improvement. In contrast to conventional techniques that are more manual-based, Six Sigma emphasises and focuses on making decisions based on facts and evidence. The key to the success of Six Sigma is its reliance on statistical methods. Advanced tools like Pareto charts, histograms, regression analysis, and fishbone diagrams are used ardently for the benefit of customers and to reduce the overall error rate. To support clinical decision-making, a clinical laboratory's primary responsibility is to generate test results that are accurate, repeatable, fast, and appropriately interpreted. Ensuring desired clinical outcomes must be the ultimate objective. To accomplish this goal, laboratories must prioritise cost-effectiveness while establishing and maintaining quality in all laboratory procedures. The concept of the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology, which mainly centres on efficiency by discerning and eradicating actions or operations that do not provide any benefit to the organisation, is combined with the proposition of Six Sigma, which emphasises data-driven analyses and optimization. The integration of these powerful concepts aids in the overall improvement of the organisations adopting these techniques. This review provides a brief overview of the benefits of the LSS methodology and its implementation in the oral pathology laboratory.

[Securing the implantable medical device circuit]. / Arrêté du 8 septembre 2021 : sécurisation du circuit des dispositifs médicaux implantables.

OBJECTIVES: The decree concerning quality management of implantable medical device circuits came into force in healthcare establishments on 26 May 2022. The aim of this project is to assess the level of safety of this circuit within the pharmacy, in order to improve it and bring it into line with this future regulation. METHODS: A grid for compliance with the decree was drawn up, enabling compliance rates to be calculated. A second grid was drawn up in accordance with internal procedures. All these criteria were audited in pairs. Priority areas for improvement were identified and working groups were formed. The action plan was monitored by the Steering Committee. Control audits ensure the implementation and relevance of the action plan, as well as the effective securing of the circuit. RESULTS: The rate of circuit compliance with the decree rose from 58% (initial audits) to 72% (control audits). Over a period of 18 months, six workgroups were set to implement improvement measures allowing to ensure regulatory compliance and circuit security. Obstacles (equipment, IT) nevertheless hindered the presence of the unique identifier for medical devices at every stages of the circuit. CONCLUSIONS: This cross-functional project was carried out in "project mode", thanks to the involvement of field staff. It will be pursued at hospital level by the person in charge of the quality management system.

Construction and validation of an instrument for evaluating Lean Healthcare in healthcare institutions / Construcción y validación de un instrumento para evaluar el Lean Healthcare en instituciones de salud / Construção e validação de instrumento para avaliação do Lean Healthcare em instituições de saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: To build and validate an instrument to evaluate Lean Healthcare in healthcare institutions. Method: Methodological study conducted in three stages: 1) Instrument construction; 2) Content validity using the Delphi technique with 14 experts; and 3) Construct validation using Structural Equation Modeling with sample consisted of 113 professionals with experience in Lean Healthcare. Data collection carried out from October/2020 to January/2021 using a digital form. Data analysis performed with the SmartPLS2.0/M3 software. Results: Items were developed after an integrative review and divided into the dimensions Structure, Process and Outcome, according to Donabedian's theoretical framework. Content validation in two rounds of the Delphi technique. Final instrument, after model adjustment, containing 16 items with Cronbach's alpha of 0.77 in Structure, 0.71 in Process and 0.83 in Outcome. Conclusion: The instrument presented evidence of validity and reliability, enabling its use in healthcare institutions to evaluate Lean Healthcare.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Construir y validar un instrumento para evaluar Lean Healthcare en instituciones de salud. Método: Estudio metodológico realizado en tres etapas: 1) Construcción del instrumento; 2) Validez de contenido mediante técnica Delphi con participación de 14 expertos; 3) Validez de constructo mediante Modelado de Ecuaciones Estructurales con muestra compuesta por 113 profesionales con experiencia en Lean Healthcare. La recopilación de datos se realizó de octubre/2020 a enero/2021 mediante formulario digital. El análisis de datos se realizó con el software SmartPLS2.0/M3. Resultados: Ítems elaborados después de revisión integradora y divididos en las dimensiones Estructura, Proceso y Resultado, según referencial teórico de Donabedian. Validación de contenido en dos rondas de la técnica Delphi. Instrumento final, después del ajuste del modelo, contiene 16 ítems con alfa de Cronbach 0,77 en Estructura, 0,71 en Proceso y 0,83 en Resultado. Conclusión: El instrumento presentó evidencias de validez y confiabilidad, permitiendo uso para evaluar Lean Healthcare.

RESUMO Objetivo: Construir e validar um instrumento para avaliar o Lean Healthcare nas instituições de saúde. Método: Estudo metodológico realizado em três etapas: 1) Construção do instrumento; 2) Validade de conteúdo pela técnica Delphi com 14 especialistas; e 3) Validade de constructo por Modelagem de Equações Estruturais, em amostra de 113 profissionais com experiência no Lean Healthcare. Coleta de dados realizada de outubro/2020 a janeiro/2021 por formulário digital. Análise de dados realizadas com o software SmartPLS2.0/M3. Resultados: Itens elaborados após revisão integrativa e divididos nas dimensões Estrutura, Processo e Resultado, conforme referencial teórico de Donabedian. Validação de conteúdo em duas rodadas da técnica Delphi. Instrumento final, após ajuste do modelo, contendo 16 itens com alfa de Cronbach de 0,77 em Estrutura, 0,71 em Processo e 0,83 em Resultado. Conclusão: O instrumento apresentou evidências de validade e confiabilidade, permitindo seu uso nas instituições de saúde para avaliar o Lean Healthcare.

Gestión departamental del conocimiento: una primera aproximación a la responsabilidad social universitaria

Fundamento: la responsabilidad social universitaria constituye un enfoque de gestión académica promotor del desarrollo social sostenible. Objetivo: analizar la gestión del conocimiento en el departamento de Ciencias Básicas Biomédicas, de la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas "Salvador Allende", durante los años 2018 al 2022, sobre la base de la responsabilidad social universitaria. Métodos: se desarrolló una investigación descriptiva, con enfoque cualitativo, complementando las metodologías del estudio de caso y de la teoría fundamentada constructivista. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos: análisis-síntesis, inducción-deducción, ascenso de lo abstracto a lo concreto e histórico lógico; y empíricos: revisión documental, análisis de contenido y grupo focal. Resultados: el análisis realizado evidenció que la gestión del conocimiento en el departamento de Ciencias Básicas Biomédicas, de la referida facultad, ostenta un enfoque estratégico y ha tenido un impacto educativo positivo como resultado del aprendizaje organizacional, y está vinculado con la gestión académica. Conclusiones: la gestión del conocimiento departamental determinó una actualización de la cultura organizacional, causante de un impacto social favorable, mediado por una intervención educativa tributaria de una formación profesional pertinente.

Background: university social responsibility constitutes an academic management approach that promotes sustainable social development. Objective: to analyze knowledge management in the Department of Basic Biomedical Sciences, of the "Salvador Allende" Faculty of Medical Sciences, from 2018 to 2022, based on university social responsibility. Methods: a descriptive investigation was developed, with a qualitative approach, complementing the methodologies of the case study and the constructivist grounded theory. Theoretical methods were used: analysis-synthesis, induction-deduction, ascent from the abstract to the concrete and historical logic; and empirical ones: documentary review, content analysis and focal group. Results: the analysis carried out showed that knowledge management in the Department of Basic Biomedical Sciences, of the aforementioned faculty, has a strategic approach and has had a positive educational impact as a result of organizational learning, and it´s linked to academic management. Conclusions: the departmental knowledge management determined an update of the organizational culture, causing a favorable social impact, mediated by an educational intervention tributary of a relevant professional training.

Lean methodology: contributions to improving work processes in health and nursing / Metodología Lean: aportes a la mejora de los procesos de trabajo en salud y enfermería / Metodologia Lean: contribuições para melhoria dos processos de trabalho em saúde e enfermagem

ABSTRACT Objective: to investigate the contributions of applying the Lean methodology to improve work processes in health and nursing and its impact on associated financial aspects. Method: an integrative review, carried out in six databases, whose sample of ten (100.0%) studies was analyzed and summarized descriptively. Results: the outcomes obtained were stratified into: benefits/barriers to Lean Healthcare implementation; economic aspects involving Lean Healthcare implementation; and process improvements through Lean Healthcare implementation. The majority of studies (60.0%) were carried out in university hospitals, contexts that need to continually improve the quality of services provided, generally with scarce and limited resources, which support the viability of maintaining the teaching, research and extension tripod. Conclusion: three (30.0%) studies highlighted the financial aspects associated with Lean methodology application. The others only mentioned the possibility of financial gains through improving processes and reducing waste.

RESUMEN Objetivo: investigar las contribuciones de la aplicación de la metodología Lean a la mejora de los procesos de trabajo en salud y enfermería y su impacto en los aspectos financieros asociados. Método: revisión integradora, realizada en seis bases de datos, cuya muestra de diez (100,0%) estudios fue analizada y resumida de forma descriptiva. Resultados: los resultados obtenidos se estratificaron en: beneficios/barreras para la implementación de Lean Healthcare; aspectos económicos que implican la implementación de Lean Healthcare; y mejoras de procesos mediante la implementación de Lean Healthcare. La mayoría de los estudios (60,0%) se realizaron en hospitales universitarios, contextos que necesitan mejorar continuamente la calidad de los servicios prestados, generalmente con recursos escasos y limitados, que sustentan la viabilidad de mantener el trípode de docencia, investigación y extensión. Conclusión: tres (30,0%) estudios destacaron los aspectos financieros asociados a la aplicación de la metodología Lean. Los demás solo mencionaron la posibilidad de obtener ganancias financieras mejorando los procesos y reduciendo el desperdicio.

RESUMO Objetivo: investigar as contribuições da aplicação da metodologia Lean para melhoria dos processos de trabalho em saúde e enfermagem e sua repercussão nos aspectos financeiros associados. Método: revisão integrativa, realizada em seis bases de dados, cuja amostra de dez (100,0%) estudos foi analisada e sintetizada descritivamente. Resultados: os desfechos obtidos foram estratificados em: benefícios/barreiras para implantação do Lean Healthcare; aspectos econômicos envolvendo a implantação do Lean Healthcare; e melhorias em processos por meio da implantação do Lean Healthcare. A maioria dos estudos (60,0%) foi realizada em hospitais universitários, contextos que precisam melhorar, continuamente, a qualidade dos serviços prestados, geralmente com recursos escassos e limitados, os quais sustentam a viabilidade da manutenção do tripé ensino, pesquisa e extensão. Conclusão: três (30,0%) estudos evidenciaram os aspectos financeiros associados à aplicação da metodologia Lean. Os demais apenas mencionaram a possibilidade de ganhos financeiros por meio da melhoria de processos e redução de desperdícios.

Lean and/or Six Sigma for process optimization in the perioperative period: an integrative review / Lean y/o Six Sigma para optimizar los procesos en el periodo perioperatorio: revisión integradora / Lean e/ou Six Sigma para otimização de processos no período perioperatório: revisão integrativa

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the evidence on the influence of Lean and/or Six Sigma for process optimization in the perioperative period. Methods: Integrative review carried out in the MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus and LILACS databases on the use of Lean and/or Six Sigma to optimize perioperative processes. The studies included were analyzed in three thematic categories: flow of surgical patients, work process and length of stay. Results: The final sample consisted of ten studies, which covered all operative periods. Lean and/or Six Sigma make a significant contribution to optimizing perioperative processes. Final considerations: Lean and/or Six Sigma optimize perioperative processes to maximize the achievement of system stability indicators, making it possible to identify potential problems in order to recognize them and propose solutions that can enable the institution of patient-centered care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar las evidencias sobre la influencia del Lean y/o Six Sigma para optimizar los procesos en el periodo perioperatorio. Métodos: Es una revisión integradora llevada a cabo en las bases de datos MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus y LILACS, sobre la utilización del Lean y/o Six Sigma para optimizar los procesos en el perioperatorio. Los estudios incluidos se analizaron en tres categorías temáticas: flujo de pacientes quirúrgicos, proceso de trabajo y tiempo de la estancia. Resultados: La muestra final estuvo formada por diez estudios, los cuales contemplaron todos los períodos operatorios. Lean y/o Six Sigma contribuyen grandemente para mejorar los procesos en el perioperatorio. Consideraciones finales: Lean y/o Six Sigma optimizan los procesos perioperatorios al maximizar el alcance de los indicadores de estabilidad de los sistemas, facilitando la identificación de problemas potenciales para reconocer y proponer soluciones que ayuden a instituir un cuidado más centrado en el paciente.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar as evidências acerca da influência do Lean e/ou Six Sigma para otimização de processos no período perioperatório. Métodos: Revisão Integrativa realizada nas bases de dados MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus e LILACS, a respeito do uso do Lean e/ou Six Sigma para otimização de processos no perioperatório. Os estudos incluídos foram analisados em três categorias temáticas: fluxo de pacientes cirúrgicos, processo de trabalho e tempo de permanência. Resultados: A amostra final foi composta por dez estudos, os quais contemplaram todos os períodos operatórios. Lean e/ou Six Sigma contribuem de forma expressiva para a otimização dos processos no perioperatório. Considerações finais: Lean e/ou Six Sigma otimizam processos perioperatórios em vista da maximização do alcance de indicadores de estabilidade dos sistemas, tornando possível a identificação de potenciais problemas para o reconhecimento e proposição de soluções que possam viabilizar a instituição de um cuidado centrado no paciente.

Sigma metric analysis of quality indicators across the testing process as an effective tool for the evaluation of laboratory performance.

Background: Laboratories across the world are successfully using quality indicators (QIs) to monitor their performance. We aimed to analyze the effectiveness of using the peer group comparison and statistical tools such as sigma metrics for periodic evaluation of QIs and identify potential errors in the preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical phases. Methods: We evaluated the monthly QIs for 1 year. A total of 11 QIs were evaluated across the three phases of the total testing process, using percentage variance, and sigma metric analysis. Results: Our study observed that based on sigma metric analysis, the performance was good for all the QIs except for the number of samples with the inappropriate specimen hemolyzed samples, clotted samples, and turnaround time (Sigma value < 3). The percentage variance of QIs in all the phases was plotted in a Pareto chart, which helped us in identifying turnaround time and internal quality control performance are the key areas that contribute to almost 80% of the errors among all the QIs. Conclusion: Laboratory performance evaluation using QIs and sigma metric analysis helped us in identifying and prioritizing the corrective actions in the key areas of the total testing process.

Protocolos gerenciados por enfermeiros para identificação precoce da sepse: revisão de escopo / Nurse-managed protocols for early identification of sepsis: a scoping review / Protocolos administrados por enfermeros para la identificación temprana de la sepsis: revisión del alcance

Objetivo: mapear os protocolos assistenciais utilizados por enfermeiros para identificação precoce da sepse no ambiente hospitalar. Método: trata-se de uma revisão de escopo ancorada nas recomendações do Joanna Briggs Institute, desenvolvida em sete bases de dados. A busca e seleção ocorreu em 17 de julho de 2021, utilizando os descritores: sepse, protocolos de enfermagem, avaliação de enfermagem e cuidados de enfermagem. Resultados: a amostra foi composta de seis estudos, destacaram-se os protocolos implementados por projetos de melhoria de qualidade e utilização sistemas eletrônicos de alerta para deterioração clínica. Conclusão: protocolos assistenciais impulsionam a aderência dos profissionais às recomendações oficiais para o manejo da sepse no ambiente hospitalar e o desenvolvimento de cuidados de enfermagem baseados em evidências, contribuindo para melhorar os indicadores de qualidade e reduzir a mortalidade entre pacientes com sepse(AU)

Objective: to map the care protocols used by nurses for the early identification of sepsis in the hospital environment. Method: this is a scope review anchored in the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute, developed in seven databases. The search and selection took place on July 17, 2021, using the descriptors: sepsis, nursing protocols, nursing assessment and nursing care. Results: the sample consisted of six studies, highlighting the protocols implemented by quality improvement projects and the use of electronic warning systems for clinical deterioration. Conclusion: care protocols boost professionals' adherence to official recommendations for the management of sepsis in the hospital environment and the development of evidence-based nursing care, contributing to improve quality indicators and reduce mortality among patients with sepsis(AU)

Objetivo: mapear los protocolos de atención utilizados por las enfermeras para identificar de forma temprana la sepsis en el ambiente hospitalario. Método: se trata de una revisión de alcance anclada en las recomendaciones del Instituto Joanna Briggs, desarrollada en siete bases de datos. La búsqueda y selección se realizó el 17 de julio de 2021, utilizando los descriptores: sepsis, protocolos de enfermería, evaluación de enfermería y cuidados de enfermería. Resultados: la muestra estuvo compuesta por seis estudios, se destacaron los protocolos implementados por los proyectos de mejora de la calidad y utilización de sistemas electrónicos de alerta con respecto al deterioro clínico. Conclusión: los protocolos asistenciales impulsan la adherencia de los profesionales a las recomendaciones oficiales para el manejo de la sepsis en el ámbito hospitalario y el desarrollo de cuidados de enfermería basados en evidencias, contribuyendo a mejorar los indicadores de calidad y reducir la mortalidad entre los pacientes con sepsis(AU)

Evaluación de la gestión de calidad en la red de bibliotecas médicas de Villa Clara / Evaluation of quality management in Villa Clara medical library network

La calidad es una exigencia vigente a nivel mundial en el área de la educación, a su vez constituye un indicador fundamental para las instituciones educativas, sujetas a proporcionar un servicio de excelencia. Por ello resulta necesario evaluar la gestión de calidad en las bibliotecas médicas de Villa Clara, de manera tal que se contribuya al mejoramiento de su funcionamiento y lograr un mayor nivel de satisfacción de las necesidades informativas de sus usuarios. Se tomaron como referentes teóricos el modelo de evaluación de bibliotecas universitarias cubanas, y los documentos normativos y teórico-metodológicos del Centro Nacional de Información sobre la temática.

Quality is a worldwide requirement in the education area, and at the same time it is a fundamental indicator for educational institutions which are subjected to provide a service of excellence. For this reason, evaluating the quality management of medical libraries in Villa Clara is a necessity, in order to contribute to the improvement of their functioning and to achieve a higher level of satisfaction of their users' information needs. The evaluation model for Cuban university libraries and the normative, theoretical and methodological documents of the National Information Center of Medical Sciences regarding this subject were taken as theoretical references.

A comparative analysis of Sigma metrics using conventional and alternative formulas.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The Six Sigma approach, employing Sigma Metrics (SM), is commonly used to evaluate analytical performance in clinical laboratories. However, there is ongoing debate regarding the suitability of the conventional SM formula, which incorporates total allowable error (TEa) and bias. To address this, an alternative formula based on within-subject biological variation (CVI) as the tolerance range (TR) has been proposed. The study aimed to calculate and compare SM values using both formulas. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty clinical chemistry parameters were evaluated, and SM values were calculated using conventional formula with two TEa goals and the alternative formula. Intermediate precision (CVA%) values were obtained from internal quality control data, while bias values were derived from external quality assessment reports. RESULTS: The results showed that using the conventional formula, 11 SM values based on CLIA TEa goals and 21 SM values based on BV TEa goals were deemed unacceptable (SM < 3). Additionally, 22 SM values calculated using the alternative formula were below 3. CONCLUSION: The choice of TR had a substantial impact on the assessed analytical performance. Laboratories should carefully consider the appropriateness of each approach based on their specific quality objectives, analyte characteristics, and laboratory operations.

Quality analysis of the clinical laboratory literature and its effectiveness on clinical quality improvement: a systematic review.

Quality improvement in clinical laboratories is crucial to ensure accurate and reliable test results. With increasing awareness of the potential adverse effects of errors in laboratory practice on patient outcomes, the need for continual improvement of laboratory services cannot be overemphasized. A literature search was conducted on PubMed and a web of science core collection between October and February 2021 to evaluate the scientific literature quality of clinical laboratory quality improvement; only peer-reviewed articles written in English that met quality improvement criteria were included. A structured template was used to extract data, and the papers were rated on a scale of 0-16 using the Quality Improvement Minimum Quality Criteria Set (QI-MQCS). Out of 776 studies, 726 were evaluated for clinical laboratory literature quality analysis. Studies were analyzed according to the quality improvement and control methods and interventions, such as training, education, task force, and observation. Results showed that the average score of QI-MQCS for quality improvement papers from 1981-2000 was 2.5, while from 2001-2020, it was 6.8, indicating continuous high-quality improvement in the clinical laboratory sector. However, there is still room to establish a proper system to judge the quality of clinical laboratory literature and improve accreditation programs within the sector.

Blood bank programs and transfusion sustainability. A serial mediating model.

INTRODUCTION: Researchers establish that the current challenges of blood safety and shortage are based on relationship between master production scheduling and blood transfusion sustainability of blood banks. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to evaluate program relationship between master production scheduling and blood transfusion sustainability through total quality management and blood production. METHODS: A survey questionnaire was adopted with staff from regional and government university teaching hospital blood banks. Simple random sampling was used to collect data from respondents. Preliminary and main data analysis was done using SPSS AMOS23. RESULTS: The results revealed that master production scheduling influence blood transfusion sustainability when serially mediated by total quality management and blood production with 34% variation change at 95% confidence interval. Again, the results obtained show that master production scheduling influence total quality management significantly. Furthermore, total quality management influence blood production significantly. Finally, blood production influence blood transfusion sustainability significantly. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Master production scheduling program actions has a positive significant relationship with blood transfusion sustainability through total quality management and blood production programs as serial mediators. This research contributes to the management of blood banks and suggests to have a greater relational management of total quality management, blood production and master production scheduling program actions in order to achieve high levels of blood transfusion sustainability, and in general, a greater benefit for society.

Consideraciones acerca del informe operatorio

El informe operatorio es un documento oficial que forma parte indispensable de la historia clínica. A pesar de que se le atribuyen funciones médicas (asistencial, docente e investigativa), legal y administrativas, con frecuencia no cumple las especificidades requeridas en la redacción. El permanente y continuo mejoramiento del desempeño profesional de los cirujanos demanda el rescate de las especificidades para la confección de tan importante documento. Es considerada una habilidad profesional específica de los médicos de las especialidades quirúrgicas, al ser parte de la práctica quirúrgica habitual e incluye aspectos cuantitativos (formales y sustanciales) y cualitativos (contenido informativo), de obligatorio cumplimiento por especialistas y residentes en formación. Constituye una responsabilidad individual que debe ser controlada por directivos y docentes de cada servicio quirúrgico. Este trabajo expresa la posición de la autora sobre el necesario rescate de la calidad de la confección del informe operatorio como parte indispensable de la seguridad del enfermo quirúrgico.

The operation note is an official document that is an indispensable part of the clinical history. Despite the fact that medical (care, teaching and investigative), legal and administrative functions are attributed to it, it frequently does not meet the specificities required in the wording. The permanent and continuous improvement of the professional performance of surgeons demands the rescue of the specificities for the preparation of such an important document. It is considered a specific professional skill for physicians in surgical specialties, as it is part of routine surgical practice and includes quantitative (formal and substantial) and qualitative (informational content) aspects, of mandatory compliance by specialists and residents in training. It constitutes an individual responsibility that must be controlled by directors and teachers of each surgical service. This work expresses the author's position on the necessary rescue of the quality of the preparation of the operation note as an essential part of the safety of the surgical patient.

Bringing quality management to perspective in higher education institutions' research output: A focus on selected private universities in Nigeria.

Bringing quality management research into perspective is a critical need in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) of most developing nations, including Nigeria. The existing literature has not sufficiently explained the relationship between total quality management implementation and the research performance in the educational industry, especially from a developing economy perspective. Therefore, this study investigated total quality management (TQM) and the research output of HEIs in Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive design to draw insights from research-based faculty members of three reputable Universities in Nigeria and adopting the PLS-SEM analysis this study established the relationship between components of TQM tools, values, and methodologies on the research output of HEIs. Our study found that dimensions of TQM, specifically TQM tools and values were found to relate positively with HEI's research output. Our study suggests that implementing total quality management, especially through its various tools, values, and methodologies will be beneficial to improving HEIs' research outputs.

Optimisation of the quality of care for patients with severe asthma: ASfarMA project.

Severe asthma has an important impact on patients and healthcare resources. Recently, the new specific treatments have defined a new scenario in which person-focused care and specialist multidisciplinary teams are necessary. Our Severe Asthma Unit (SAU) started the ASfarMA project along with an external human-centered design company to understand patients' vision of their illness, treatment, and healthcare experience, and to define the ideal SAU by performing a core group session, in-depth semistructured interviews and co-creation workshop. Herein, a series of tips classified as either 'transformative solutions' or 'quick wins', according to a value versus effort matrix are presented. Successful implementation of the proposed solutions will be valuable for patients and healthcare professionals, optimising patient care and resources. These findings can also be helpful to other SAUs or other humanisation projects involving complex, chronic and multidisciplinary pathologies.

Improving emergency department care of infants with acute bronchiolitis by reducing the use of unrecommended drugs: a quality-of-care initiative in a Spanish autonomous community. / Iniciativa de mejora para reducir el uso de fármacos no recomendados en el manejo de lactantes con bronquiolitis aguda en los servicios de urgencias de una comunidad autónoma.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of a quality-of-care improvement program implemented in emergency departments (EDs) in a Spanish autonomous community with the aim of reducing the use of unrecommended drugs when treating infants for acute bronchiolitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Before-after quasi-experimental intervention study. We retrospectively included infants aged 12 months or less who were treated for acute bronchiolitis in 24 Spanish national health system hospital EDs in December during 2 epidemic periods: in 2018, before implementing the program, and in 2019, after implementation. Data collected included epidemiologic information, clinical and care details, and clinical course. The program consisted of providing informative material and training sessions before the epidemic period started. RESULTS: A total of 7717 episodes (4007 in 2018 and 2710 in 2019) were identified. Epidemiologic and clinical characteristics did not differ between the 2 periods. ED use of the following treatments decreased between the 2 periods: salbutamol, from 29.4% (95% CI, 28.8%-30.8%) in 2018 to 10.6% (95% CI, 9.6%-11.6%) in 2019; epinephrine from 6.0% (95% CI, 5.3%-6.8%) to 0.9% (95% CI, 0.7%-1.3%); and hypertonic saline solution fell from 8.2% (95% CI, 7.3%-9.1%) to 2.1% (95% CI, 1.7%-2.6%) (P.001, all comparisons). Prescriptions for salbutamol on discharge fell from 38.7% (95% CI, 36.9%-40.4%) to 10.6% (95% CI, 9.6%-11.6%) (P.001). Admissions and readmissions did not change, and the median time (interquartile range) spent in the ED fell from 81 (44-138) minutes to 66 (37-127) minutes (P.001). CONCLUSION: The quality-of-care improvement initiative was able to decrease the number of unrecommended therapeutic interventions for acute bronchiolitis. However, we identified great variations between EDs, suggesting that training and assessment of impact should continue.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el impacto de una iniciativa de mejora realizada en los servicios de urgencias (SU) de una comunidad autónoma para reducir el uso de fármacos no recomendados en lactantes con bronquiolitis aguda (BA). METODO: Estudio cuasi-experimental analítico del tipo "antes y después de una intervención". Se incluyeron de forma retrospectiva todas las BA en niños # 12 meses atendidas en los SU de 24 hospitales públicos durante el mes de diciembre de dos periodos epidémicos: 2018 (preintervención) y 2019 (postintervención). Se recogieron variables epidemiológicas, clínicas, asistenciales y evolutivas. La intervención consistió en difundir material informativo y realizar actividades formativas previas al periodo epidémico. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 7.717 episodios (2018: 4.007 y 2019: 3.710). No existieron diferencias en las características epidemiológicas y clínicas. El empleo de salbutamol en los SU descendió del 29,4% [intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC 95%): 28,8-30,8] en 2018 al 10,6% (IC 95%: 9,6-11,6) en 2019 (p 0,001), el de adrenalina del 6,0% (IC 95%: 5,3-6,8) al 0,9% (IC 95%: 0,7-1,3) y el de suero salino hipertónico del 8,2% (IC 95%: 7,3-9,1) al 2,1% (IC 95%: 1,7-2,6) (p 0,001). La prescripción al alta de salbutamol se redujo del 38,7% (IC 95%: 36,9-40,4) al 10,6% (IC 95%: 9,6-11,6) (p 0,001). La tasa de ingreso y la tasa de readmisión no cambiaron y la mediana de tiempo de estancia en los SU se redujo 81 minutos [rango intercuartil (RIC) 44-138] a 66 (RIQ: 37-127) (p 0,001). CONCLUSIONES: La iniciativa de mejora ha conseguido disminuir la tasa de intervenciones terapéuticas no indicadas en BA. Sin embargo, existe una gran variabilidad entre los diferentes SU por lo que la estrategia y la medición de su impacto deben mantenerse en el tiempo.