Using a FOCUS-PDCA Quality Improvement Model to Reduce Catheter Occlusions with Standardized Protocols

Patricia (Pat) A. Feehery RN, BS, CRNI has 25 years clinical, educational and managerial experience in the field of intravenous therapy and vascular access. She is a Certified Registered Nurse, Intravenous. In 1992, Pat was an integral member of the planning committee that developed a comprehensive 5-year business plan to define the future of Intravenous Specialties in the Sparrow Health Systems. This visionary plan lead to the successful development of an outpatient IV Specially Infusion Center and establishment of the hospital IV Specially Department and Vascular Access Service. Pat is currently the manager of the IV Specialty Department and the outpatient IV Specialty Infusion Center at Sparrow Health System in Lansing, Michigan.

Suzanne Allen, BSN, RNC, was at the time of this project a Clinical Instructor in the Nursing Education Department at Sparrow Health System. She holds certification in Medical-Surgical Nursing and Nursing Continuing Education and Staff Development, and worked in Nursing Education for 20 years. Presently, she is the Clinical Analyst in Materials Management at Sparrow Health System.

Julie Bey, RN, BSN has been a Performance Improvement Specialist for Sparrow Health System since 1998. In this role, she provides facilitation for many Performance Improvement Teams throughout the health system. She provides education on Performance Improvement Principles and Tools. Her nursing background includes 20 years of Critical Care nursing experience and 12 years of Critical Care nursing education.