Use of quality improvement (QI) methodology to decrease length of stay (LOS) for newborns with uncomplicated gastroschisis

Abstract Purpose Gastroschisis is a congenital defect of the abdominal wall leading to considerable morbidity and long hospitalizations. The purpose of this study was to use quality improvement methodology to standardize care in the management of gastroschisis that may contribute to length of stay (LOS). Methods A gastroschisis quality improvement team established a best-practice protocol in order to decrease LOS in infants with uncomplicated gastroschisis. The specific aim was to decrease median LOS from a baseline of 34days. We used statistical process control charts including rational subgroup analysis to monitor LOS. Results From December 2008 to December 2016, 119 patients with uncomplicated gastroschisis were evaluated. Retrospective data were obtained on 25 patients prior to protocol implementation. Ninety-four patients with uncomplicated gastroschisis comprised the prospective process stage. The median LOS for this retrospective cohort was 34days (IQR: 30.5–50.5), while the median LOS for the prospective cohort following implementation of the protocol decreased to 29days (IQR: 23–43). Conclusions With the use of quality improvement methodology, including standardization of care and a change in surgical approach, the median LOS for newborns with uncomplicated gastroschisis at our institution decreased from 34days to 29days. Level of evidence 3.