A nurse is a team member assisting with the define-measure-analyze-improve-control (DMAIC) process. Which action would the nurse take during the define phase?

Question

a. Identify the stakeholders.
b. Agree on the key performance indicators.
c. Identify gaps between performance and goals.
d. Identify those responsible for data collec-tion.

Answer 1

A
In the define phase, a charter is developed; goals, team leaders, membership, and team roles and responsibilities are identified; and the stakeholders affected by the process are identified. In the measurement phase, everyone within the team needs to agree on what is to be measured, which are called key performance indicators (time, costs, distance, numbers of incidents, or items). The analyze phase is usually a short phase, but it can be longer depending on the issue because anal-ysis of baseline data is collected. It is important to be objective in identifying where the real problems exist during this phase. The improve phase is a good place to determine whether meas-ures reflect the true problems. The problem statement and goal statement may need to be revised based on the findings. The data collected may have shown that no real problem exists or that the problem involves other issues. During the control phase, controls are established to keep things going in the right direction. Controlling and sustaining the improvement is not easy and requires the development, documentation, and implementation of an ongoing monitoring plan.