Simple Beginnings

Listed below are a series of questions to help provide ideas for clinics just starting out in the quality arena. These are all areas that our 6 rural health clinics have struggled with at some time. If you see something on the list that sounds all too familiar, and you want to hear the details of our efforts, please feel free to call me.

The key to these questions is CONSISTENCY in performance. Much of our initial effort has been focused on simple issues that were hard to consistently overcome. Look at the list below and ask if:

1. Our Medical Records consistently have
   • Comprehensive history and physical
   • Current problem list
   • "NKA" or allergy list in a prominent location
   • Vitals for the date of service
   • Weight for the date of service
   • Current face sheet listing all the demographic information
2. We consistently remove outdated medications and supplies before they expire. We store according to manufacture's guidelines.
3. We consistently offer annual TB training to all affected staff.
4. We consistently clean autoclaves and complete spore testing according to manufacture's guidelines.
5. We consistently replace sharps containers when they reach the "full line."
6. We have accurate and complete CLIA manuals, including required quality performance measures described in each package insert.
7. Clinical staff is able to demonstrate appropriate use of emergency equipment and supplies, including oxygen set up where available.
8. Staff is consistently able to articulate their personal role in the event of a fire, tornado, or other disaster.
9. We have a recall process in place for supplies and medications.
10. We have an employee satisfaction survey process.
11. We have a patient satisfaction survey process.
12. We consistently perform well on outside surveys.
13. We routinely assess core competencies of every staff member.