Efforts to Eliminate Elective Deliveries Prior to 39 Weeks and Reduce Numbers of Elective Inductions

The decision was made to proceed with efforts to eliminate elective deliveries prior to 39 weeks and reduce numbers of elective inductions.

A variety of process improvements occurred including extensive physician and nursing education, a detailed induction policy and the implementation of an algorithm used by nursing for scheduled deliveries.

Since January 2011, there has been a 2 percent drop in special care nursery admits.

This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

• Safe
• Timely
• Effective
• Efficient
• Equitable
• Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)