Supplies

• Using the Rapid Improvement Model to identify goals and the steps needed to improve performance
• Tracking the number of paper envelopes mailed to patients
• Developing smart phrases to expedite email communication

What can your team to do expand the use of existing technology to provide patients faster service? 

• Creating computer spreadsheet to track inventory and order supplies
• Labeling shelves and supplies more clearly to reduce clutter
• Eliminating hoarding and rarely used supplies, and consolidating orders

What can your team do to harness the power of technology? What else could your team do to centralize information that is scattered? 

• Setting up designated bins in operating rooms for blue wrap recycling
• Educating staff about the dos and don’ts of the bins, such as no infectious or solid waste
• Coordinating with a local charity such as Goodwill to help with processing

What can your team do to "go green"? What else could your team do to reduce waste?

• Tracking individual items sold monthly  
• Comparing previous distribution of items and loss of revenue  
• Inputting data into Excel spreadsheet to see projected results 

What can your team do to ensure Kaiser Permanente continues to be affordable for all members? 

• Reviewing the department's budget together
• Researching the costs and benefits of different types of needles
• Self-monitoring to reduce usage of butterfly needles

What can your team do to identify areas or products where savings can be found? What else could your team do to cut expenses?

• Involving nurses, physicians and materials management in the project from the beginning
• Mobilizing all UBT members to use stickers to indicate which supplies they use—and which they could live without
• Managing resistance to change

What can your team do to engage everyone in performance improvement efforts? What else could your team do to encourage feedback and help individuals manage change?

• Conducting a motion analysis of sorting and delivering packages
• Purchasing more carts and hand trucks
• Enforcing an existing agreement with suppliers to split deliveries among departments

What can your team do to engage co-workers in a conversation about safety? What else could your team do to identify the next potential injury for employees and patients?