Definitions
Here are the definitions of some key terms used in the APEX program.
Completed PI Project
A completed PI project is one where a project team has finalized an improvement activity that meets all of the following criteria. The project summary submitted with the APEX application must describe each of these required elements.
- Project methodology
- Problem statement
- Project Aim statement including measure of success
- Background
- Baseline Data
- QI tools used
- Rationale for intervention
- Post-intervention data and analysis
- At least two PDSA cycles
- Results
- Benefit to Organization/Alignment to Organizational Goals
- Sustainability plan
Mentor
For this purpose, a QI mentor is an individual who has attained at least the Gold Level and, over time, provides guidence and advises less experienced QI professionals on proper performance improvement methodology and use of tools in completing PI projects, publishing projects, obtaining grants for PI projects or presenting PI projects at professional venues. The mentor’s less experienced mentee(s) has at least obtained the Silver Level.