Implementation of POCQI to Improve the Quality of Neonatal Care at the NICU of RSPAD Gatot Soebroto

Abstract

The quality of neonatal health services is a key determinant in reducing newborn mortality rates. The Point of Care Quality Improvement (POCQI) method developed by WHO was implemented to enhance care quality at the NICU of RSPAD Gatot Soebroto. This initiative involved 35 NICU nurses organised into five quality improvement teams, focusing on infection control, lactation, resuscitation, respiratory aids, and parenteral therapy. Training, supervision, and application of the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle were utilised. The programme produced 16 SMART-based recommendations and 11 sustaining improvement initiatives. Results showed significant outcomes including reduced incidence of VAP, increased breastfeeding rates, improved adherence to resuscitation protocols, and early detection of phlebitis using VIP scores. The project demonstrates the effectiveness of POCQI in building nurse capacity and efficiently using resources to improve neonatal service quality. Key success factors included full nurse participation, certified facilitator mentorship, and the use of local data for problem-solving. POCQI proved to be a practical, cost-effective approach suitable for replication in other hospital units. This study recommends integrating POCQI into long-term quality improvement strategies in hospital settings.