Workshop on clinical audit and quality improvement projects: Strengthening nursing practice

Gowdham. P1, Vishalakshi B2

1Senior Nurse Educator & Patient Safety Coordinator, Kauvery Hospital, Marathahalli, Karanataka

2CNO, Kauvery Hospital, Marathahalli, Karanataka

Abstract

The Department of Nursing, Kauvery Hospital, Marathahalli, conducted a one-day workshop on Clinical Audit and Quality Improvement Projects (QIP) on 10 December 2025. The workshop focused on strengthening sr. nurses’ competencies in audit methodology, quality improvement processes, and patient safety through expert-led sessions and practical discussions.

Introduction

Clinical audit and quality improvement projects serve as essential tools for evaluating clinical practices and ensuring continuous improvement in healthcare delivery. Nurses play a crucial role in implementing and sustaining these initiatives. With this perspective, the Department of Nursing organized this workshop to enhance professional knowledge and promote a quality driven culture in nursing practice.

Session-wise Resource Person Contributions

RN Gowdham P, Sr. Nurse educator and Patient safety coordinator, Department of Nursing, inaugurated the program and provided an overview of the workshop objectives. The session emphasized the responsibility of nurses in identifying care gaps, participating in clinical audits, and translating audit findings into measurable improvements at the unit level.

Mrs. Vishalakshi, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), delivered an expert talk on the importance of clinical audit and QIP in nursing. She highlighted the role of audits in standardizing care, strengthening patient safety, and aligning nursing practice with evidence-based guidelines. She stressed that quality improvement is a continuous process requiring leadership involvement and staff accountability.

Mrs. Savitha V N, Deputy Nursing Superintendent (DNS), introduced the concept of the Gemba Walk. She explained how direct observation at the point of care helps in identifying workflow gaps, process inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities. The session reinforced the importance of leadership presence in clinical areas to support problem-solving and frontline engagement.

Ms. Srisha, External Trainer, conducted detailed sessions on how to conduct clinical audit and QIP. She elaborated on the complete audit cycle, including problem identification, defining standards and criteria, data collection methods, analysis, implementation of change, and re-audit. Practical examples and interactive discussions helped participants understand the application of audit and quality improvement principles in real clinical settings.

Outcomes

The workshop enhanced participants’ understanding of clinical audit and QIP methodologies. Nurses gained clarity on initiating audit projects, using data for decision-making, and implementing sustainable quality improvement measures. The sessions promoted confidence and readiness to undertake unit-based quality initiatives.

Conclusion

The workshop successfully reinforced the importance of clinical audit and quality improvement in nursing practice. The expert contributions of the resource persons enriched participants’ learning and strengthened their commitment to quality care and patient safety. Such initiatives play a vital role in fostering continuous improvement within healthcare organizations.

Gallery

Kauvery Hospital