Combining LEAN methodology with Six Sigma yields a combination of two of the most powerful improvement tools available to close the gap between current performance and future goal performance. Six Sigma has been a driving force behind business improvements at GE and Motorola and is gaining ground in healthcare. The focus of Six Sigma projects is on meeting customer expectations and reducing variation in performance. Application of these tools follows a disciplined statistical approach to identification of the root causes of defects. The ultimate goal of Six Sigma projects is "zero defects." LEAN methodology focuses on optimizing flow, increasing speed of delivery to customers (both internal and external), and reducing waste in the system. The most noted application of LEAN methodology is Toyota. The primary target of LEAN methodology is lead time and cycle time. LEAN Sigma training incorporates both Six Sigma and LEAN methodology to provide a balanced toolkit. In this session, we will describe this process and give examples from our endoscopy experience.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the abstracts from SGNA's 34th Annual Course, Charting a Course for Professional Growth. The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.