Leadership in Quality: Empowering Urology Nurses to Drive CQI Initiatives

Nerissa M. GerialPhilippines Speaker Leadership in Quality: Empowering Urology Nurses to Drive CQI Initiatives This presentation explores the critical role of urology nurses in leading and sustaining Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) initiatives in the clinical setting, with a focus on practical application within the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI). It begins by defining CQI as a structured, data-driven, and preventive approach to improving patient care and institutional performance, grounded in national regulatory frameworks from the Department of Health (DOH). The session introduces the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle as the core CQI methodology and walks the audience through each phase using examples and guidance relevant to nursing practice. A special focus is given to the role of nursing leadership in fostering a culture of quality through visibility, support, recognition, and resource allocation and how leadership behaviors directly influence CQI success. Building a CQI culture is illustrated through the NKTI model, highlighting strategies such as the establishment of a dedicated CQI unit, regular trainings, guided proposal development, executive-level presentations, recognition systems, and integration of CQI into performance evaluation. A practical example of problem prioritization based on the criteria of the Philippine Society of Quality in Healthcare is also included to demonstrate structured decision-making. The presentation concludes by showcasing CQI milestones and award-winning projects in urology nursing, reinforcing the message that quality is not an accident. It is the result of intentional, collaborative, and skillfully led efforts. Nurses, regardless of position, are empowered to become change agents and stewards of continuous improvement in healthcare.