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How can you evaluate the impact of your problem-solving process on patient outcomes?

As a nurse, you face complex problems and dilemmas every day that require effective problem-solving skills. But how do you know if your problem-solving process is working and improving patient outcomes? In this article, you will learn how to evaluate the impact of your problem-solving process on patient outcomes using four steps: identifying the problem, selecting the best solution, implementing the solution, and measuring the results.

1 Identify the problem

The first step in evaluating the impact of your problem-solving process is to identify the problem clearly and accurately. You need to define the problem in terms of what is happening, why it is happening, and what are the consequences for the patient. You also need to gather relevant data and information to support your problem statement and analysis. For example, if you notice that a patient has a high risk of falls, you need to identify the factors that contribute to this risk, such as medication, mobility, cognition, and environment.

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Karen Mercereau

Certified Instructor Advanced Clinical Sciences
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The factors that you mention as essential to evaluating outcomes are certainly important. However, this would imply that an Advocate is utilizing a well-proven Advocacy Process, one that is grounded in actual clinical practice. The Process should also include such factors as family structure and impact on the patient's problems, history of the problem(s), what therapeutic approaches have been taken, and the outcomes of those approaches. Of course, one cannot evaluate the problems and all the contributing factors without determining the level of understanding of the patient. Do they realize the causes of the problem and how they are impacting her/his condition? Establishing a strong therapeutic relationship will aid this whole process.

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2 Select the best solution

The second step in evaluating the impact of your problem-solving process is to select the best solution for the problem. You need to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each possible solution, as well as the feasibility, acceptability, and sustainability of each option. You also need to involve the patient and other stakeholders in the decision-making process, as they may have valuable insights and preferences that affect the outcome. For example, if you decide to implement a fall prevention program for a patient, you need to consult with the patient, the family, and the interdisciplinary team to ensure that the program is suitable and effective.

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3 Implement the solution

The third step in evaluating the impact of your problem-solving process is to implement the solution in a timely and systematic manner. You need to plan the actions, resources, and responsibilities required to execute the solution, as well as the communication and coordination strategies to ensure smooth implementation. You also need to monitor the progress and adjust the solution as needed, based on feedback and changing conditions. For example, if you implement a fall prevention program for a patient, you need to document the interventions, educate the patient and the family, and collaborate with other staff members to prevent falls.

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4 Measure the results

The fourth and final step in evaluating the impact of your problem-solving process is to measure the results and evaluate the effectiveness of the solution. You need to compare the actual outcomes with the expected outcomes, using quantitative and qualitative indicators, such as patient satisfaction, clinical indicators, and cost-effectiveness. You also need to reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of your problem-solving process, and identify the lessons learned and the areas for improvement. For example, if you implement a fall prevention program for a patient, you need to assess the number and severity of falls, the patient's feedback, and the resource utilization.

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5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you evaluate the impact of your problem-solving process on patient outcomes?

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1 Identify the problem

2 Select the best solution

3 Implement the solution

4 Measure the results

5 Here’s what else to consider

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