Using Lean Six Sigma to Bolster an Infection Control Program

Session Description: Infection Control is a constantly evolving, essential program. Lean Six Sigma is a combination of the two most popular quality improvement methodologies, yet it is widely unknown to Infection Preventionists. Lean focuses on basic problem solving and Six Sigma seeks to optimize processes. By using Lean Six Sigma, a healthcare facility can bolster their infection control program. In taking the time to walk through the methodologies to eliminate waste and reduce variation, infection control processes can be optimized. The content will highlight tools from both methodologies such as Project Charters, Voice of Customer, Process Mapping, Measurement System Analysis, Brainstorming, and Implementation Planning, during the Define, Measure, Analyze, and Improve Phase of a project. It will demonstrate the successful application of the tools from both methodologies in a Transmission-Based Precaution Compliance and Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection Kamishibai Card Utilization project in a pediatric hospital. The commonalities that the two projects using Lean Six Sigma are determining the best processes and waste elimination, documentation of best processes, standardization to adhere to the best processes to tackle variability, measuring success of intervention to continue improvement, and leveraging ideas to help best bring ideas to the table. Lean Six Sigma can be used as a newfound approach to quality improvement for Infection Preventionists.