3 credit hours

This course provides students with the tools to develop and implement quality improvement programs in health care settings. Quality improvement theory, models, and tools are explored that lead to improvement in clinical outcomes, efficiency in clinical practice, increased patient safety and cost effectiveness as related to resource allocation. Additionally, the process of policy development and implementation in both public and private sectors is explored along with political processes influencing healthcare at the local, state and federal level. The role of the advanced practice nurse in health policy and advocacy is also addressed.