A Process Improvement Project Decreases Blood Culture Contamination Rates in the Emergency Room

The ER blood culture contamination rate remained above the national target even after implementing evidence-based practices. A blood culture collection team with designated staff from the ER was formed. They received education on proper blood culture collection protocols including the importance of following aseptic technique.

The new project was modified to enforce best practice by doing just-in-time education with staff identified to have collected a contaminated blood culture. Staff was required to complete an education module and practice was observed by the unit educator.

After the new project implementation, the blood culture contamination rate for the ER has remained below the national target for 12 consecutive months.

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.)