Continuous Quality Improvement

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) is a systematic approach, using tested methods and tools, to enhance the overall quality of a product or service.  Illinois EMSC is committed to improving the quality of care within the pediatric emergency and critical care system.  All of us must work together to develop effective strategies for delivering high quality service to the pediatric population that we serve within our EMS/EMSC system.

Illinois EMSC has assisted with the development of pediatric quality improvement committees within each of the eleven EMS regions to enhance prehospital and emergency department quality improvement activities.  The goal of this webpage is to provide you with proven CQI methods and resources to ensure your CQI initiatives are worthwhile and meaningful.  Included in this page are template data collection tools and examples of quality improvement successes within our state.

CQI 101
Learn the basics of the CQI process, key methods, tools and techniques that you can utilize in your CQI projects.

New CQI Liaison
 If you are new to the role of CQI Liaison, click here for valuable resources, contact information and frequently asked questions.

Regional Activities
Go to the EMS regional map where you can access region - specific information.

CQI Manual
The CQI manual refers to the "big, blue binder" that all recognized hospitals receive.  The CQI manual offers practical information and resources for the Pediatric CQI Liaison including: the role and responsibilities of a CQI Liaison, sample monitor templates and rapid cycle quality improvement techniques.

Regional Meeting Calendar (50K)
This link provides you with a calendar outlining the CQI Liaison meetings for each region.

Data Collection Tool Examples
This link provides template data collection tools for a variety of clinical issues including: interfacility transfers, deaths, resuscitations, pain management, respiratory distress, and administration of antipyretics.  You can download and adapt these documents to fit your own CQI project specifications.

EMSC Shared Resources
Find links to handouts, announcements, and other EMSC - related information that has been distributed by the Illinois EMSC office.

EMSC CQI Success Stories
Each regional CQI committee identifies quality indicators of local interest and defines a related record review tool.  The CQI committee members then perform reviews of cases at their own facility for comparison to their peer facilities.  Since 2001 these regional indicators have shown a number of improvements, summarized as regional CQI success stories.