Quality Assurance & Improvement Flashcards
7 cards from real ECC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Quality Assurance & Improvement flashcards as text
In ECC QI programs, what does 'no-flow time' refer to?
Answer: Duration with no chest compressions during cardiac arrest
No-flow time is the total duration during a cardiac arrest when chest compressions are not being delivered, which worsens outcomes.
Which approach best supports a culture of continuous improvement in an ECC program?
Answer: Structured, non-punitive debriefing after every resuscitation event
Non-punitive debriefing after each event encourages honest reflection and team learning without fear of blame.
A QI team discovers that ACLS-trained nurses are frequently unsure which compression rate to use. According to current AHA guidelines, what is the target rate?
Answer: 100–120 compressions per minute
The AHA recommends a compression rate of 100–120 per minute for high-quality CPR in adult patients.
When reviewing resuscitation data, which finding would MOST concern a QI coordinator focused on ventilation quality?
Answer: Average ventilation rate of 22 breaths per minute during CPR
Hyperventilation (>10 breaths/min) during CPR increases intrathoracic pressure, reduces venous return, and worsens survival outcomes.
A hospital's QI data shows that epinephrine administration during cardiac arrest is frequently delayed beyond 5 minutes. What system-level change would BEST address this?
Answer: Embedding a designated medication nurse role in the resuscitation team
Assigning a dedicated medication nurse within the team structure eliminates confusion and reduces delays in drug delivery during arrest.
Which PDSA cycle phase involves testing a small-scale change in resuscitation practice before hospital-wide implementation?
Answer: Do
The 'Do' phase of a PDSA cycle is when the planned change is tested on a small scale to gather initial data.
What role does simulation play in ECC quality assurance programs?
Answer: It allows teams to practice and identify performance gaps in a safe environment
Simulation provides a risk-free environment to rehearse resuscitation scenarios and expose system or skill deficiencies before real events.