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The PMG investigated ways to improve patient care, encourage appropriate resource utilization and decrease Length of Stay (LOS).
The PMG reviewed the latest Evidence Based Medicine findings for the treatment of Bronchiolitis and existing benchmarked hospital programsą. The design of the
Bronchiolitis program took place in the spring of 2000 and the pilot began in December 2000.
Program Milestones
- 2000, Family Practice and Pediatric Departments approved the program pilot.
- 2001, Family Practice and Pediatric Departments approved moving the program from pilot to general admission phase.
- 2003, combined billing and assessment records to assist in streamlining the process.
The program stresses these aspects by standardizing or focusing on hydration, oxygenation, airway clearance, and frequent respiratory assessment. In a small segment of
the population the use of other respiratory therapy modalities are indicated.
The care of the patient starts with aggressive care at the point of presentation. A bronchodilator challenge determines
whether the patient will benefit from that modality. The patient receives oxygen therapy and respiratory assessment consistent with their level of illness.
Bronchiolitis Program Outcome Data
- In 2003 the Bronchiolitis program had an average reduction in LOS of 1.10 days per year compared to pre-program LOS.
- During 2001-2003 the Bronchiolitis program average LOS reduction is .96 days compared to pre-program LOS.
- The Bronchiolitis program cared for 186 patients in 2003.
- During 2001-2003 the Bronchiolitis program cared for 501 patients.
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