Quality Improvement and Outcome Measurement Flashcards
6 cards from real NCTRC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Quality Improvement and Outcome Measurement flashcards as text
A therapeutic recreation specialist wants to implement a continuous quality improvement (CQI) program. Which step should occur FIRST?
Answer: Identify the problem or area for improvement
CQI follows a systematic cycle (Plan-Do-Study-Act or similar). The first step is always to identify the specific problem or area for improvement before collecting data or implementing any changes.
Which of the following best describes a 'utilization review' in a therapeutic recreation department?
Answer: Evaluating whether the level of TR services provided matches the client's clinical needs
Utilization review is a process that examines whether the type, frequency, and intensity of services delivered are clinically appropriate and justified for each client's condition and goals.
An outcome measure in therapeutic recreation is BEST defined as:
Answer: A measurable change in a client's functional status attributable to TR intervention
An outcome measure captures a quantifiable change in a client's functioning, behavior, or quality of life that can be linked to the TR intervention, allowing programs to demonstrate effectiveness.
Which accreditation body is most commonly associated with establishing quality standards for rehabilitation and community-based TR programs?
Answer: CARF International
CARF International (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) is a major accrediting body for rehabilitation and community-based services including therapeutic recreation programs. Facilities seek CARF accreditation to demonstrate quality and accountability.
A CTRS reviews discharge data and finds that 40% of clients did not achieve their leisure functioning goals. The MOST appropriate next step using a CQI approach is to:
Answer: Analyze potential causes for the gap before making any program changes
CQI requires root-cause analysis before implementing changes. Jumping to solutions without understanding why outcomes are poor can waste resources or worsen the situation. Lowering standards undermines program integrity.
Benchmarking in a therapeutic recreation quality program involves:
Answer: Comparing your program's outcomes or practices against recognized best performers or standards
Benchmarking means identifying and comparing your program's performance data against best-practice standards, peer institutions, or high-performing programs to identify where improvements are needed.