Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) is a way of thinking and a methodical approach designed to make systems and processes better by using ongoing, data-informed strategies. At its core, CQI is based on the idea that every process has room for improvement. It emphasizes that change should come from evidence and teamwork in solving problems, rather than just reacting to issues as they arise (Sollecito & Johnson, 2013). It highlights a culture where learning never stops, everyone is involved, and we think about the bigger picture—understanding that mistakes usually come from issues in the process, not from individual shortcomings. CQI initiatives are typically shaped by frameworks like the Deming Cycle—Plan, Do, Check (Study), Act (PDCA)—offering a structured approach to making meaningful changes. During the Plan phase, we take the time to define our goals and outline the processes. In the Do phase, we put the plan into action on a smaller scale. The Check (Study) phase is all about analyzing the outcomes we’ve achieved. Finally, in the Act phase, we focus on refining the process by considering the feedback and results we’ve gathered (McLaughlin & Olson, 2017).
These elements play a crucial role in new initiatives as they foster lasting improvement, minimize inconsistencies in care delivery, and confirm that changes are truly effective before being rolled out on a larger scale. The PDCA cycle holds significant value in health care because of the intricate nature of patient care systems, the critical importance of medical outcomes, and the necessity for accountability and efficiency. This approach allows health professionals to thoughtfully reflect on their experiences, make informed decisions based on evidence, and continuously improve their clinical practices. This dedication ultimately enhances patient care and boosts the overall performance of the organization (Institute for Healthcare Improvement [IHI], n.d.).

References
Institute for Healthcare Improvement. (n.d.). Science of improvement: How to improve. https://www.ihi.org/resources/Pages/HowtoImprove/ScienceofImprovementHowtoImprove.aspx
McLaughlin, D. B., & Olson, J. R. (2017). Healthcare operations management (3rd ed.). Health Administration Press.
Sollecito, W. A., & Johnson, J. K. (2013). Continuous quality improvement in health care: Theory, implementations, and applications (4th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.