North Texas Research Forum 2025
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Division
North Texas
Hospital
Medical City Arlington
Specialty
Internal Medicine
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2025
Keywords
echocardiogram, bubble study, quality improvement
Disciplines
Cardiovascular Diseases | Diagnosis | Internal Medicine | Medicine and Health Sciences
Abstract
Introduction: This quality improvement project centers around the implementation of a dedicated mechanism for ordering bubble studies in echocardiograms at Medical City North Hills Hospital. Drawing inspiration from successful implementations observed at Medical City Denton Hospital, the project aims to address existing challenges, standardize practices, and improve overall efficiency in the echocardiogram ordering workflow. Background: The echocardiogram ordering process at Medical City North Hills Hospital currently faces challenges, specifically the absence of a dedicated mechanism for ordering bubble studies. This deficiency introduces the risk of oversights, particularly in cases of syncope and stroke, thereby compromising diagnostic precision. Acknowledging these challenges, a quality improvement project is initiated to optimize the ordering process and enhance patient care outcomes at Medical City North Hills Hospital. Methods: The methodology involves initiating discussions with the ultrasound department at Medical City North Hills Hospital to gather their insights and preferences. This collaborative approach aims to ascertain whether the ultrasound department would prefer an update to the existing order or the implementation of a distinct order specifically for bubble studies. Ensuring active involvement and feedback from the ultrasound department is integral to the success of this initiative. Subsequently, the project will engage in discussions with the IT department to determine the most effective and seamless implementation process. This collaborative effort will ensure that the introduction of a user-friendly checkbox or button within the electronic health record (EHR) system aligns with technological capabilities and enhances overall efficiency. Results: Anticipated outcomes encompass the establishment of standardized practices, improved workflow efficiency, heightened physician awareness, and ultimately, enhanced patient care outcomes at Medical City North Hills Hospital. Metrics for evaluation include comparing ordering rates pre and post implementation, and user satisfaction. Conclusion: In conclusion, this quality improvement project at Medical City North Hills Hospital, guided by successful implementations observed at Medical City Denton Hospital, reflects our commitment to providing high-quality patient care. By enhancing the ordering of bubble studies, we aim to contribute to better outcomes for patients at Medical City North Hills Hospital.
Original Publisher
HCA Healthcare Graduate Medical Education
Recommended Citation
Lekkala, Vineeth; Raguthu, Sharvani; Yusufali, Taher; Ahmad, Mahmood; and Sengodan, Mohan, "Streamlining Bubble Study Requests in Echo Orders: A QI Initiative" (2025). North Texas Research Forum 2025. 71.
https://scholarlycommons.hcahealthcare.com/northtexas2025/71