Engaging the Front Line

A Case Study on Implementing Lean Methodology to Improve Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections

Abstract

Employee engagement is a key driver in achieving successful quality improvement initiatives. An important aspect of engagement is enabling the nursing staff to have a role in problem solving at the front line, thus improving productivity. Finding an appropriate methodology that resonates with the frontline staff can be challenging. This article discusses the use of the Lean Methodology to prevent central line–associated bloodstream infections in a large urban hospital. The case study provided will review an initial attempt at frontline problem solving using the Lean Methodology and a more successful strategy with the development of a nurse champion program.