What does quality mean to me?

Quality is a word with many meanings.  Everyone has different ideas of what quality is.  In my opinion, the levels of quality range from a personal trait, the level of class an item is in, and something that can be described in reference to level of care.

Quality of trait is something that a person possesses in a positive way. We all have resumes that express our qualities.  A quality that I encompass is that I am very thorough. This is a good quality to have especially in healthcare.  Qualities are very important to look at when evaluating a person for possible employment or even on a personal level such as friendship.

The level of class an item is in can be referred to as low, medium, or high quality. It’s like when I go to the store to buy a shirt. There are levels of quality a shirt can be in. A nice soft shirt that is made well has good quality. It can last a long time. A medium quality can be also classified in the food category such as meats. A sirloin steak is in the middle of a filet mignon and steak tips. A low quality can be something you get from the dollar store. It can resemble a name brand item such as Reynolds Wrap foil verses a generic foil brand. We all know that it does the same thing but is not truly the same quality as the real deal. 

Last but not least, describing level of care is the closest relation to healthcare. This is the most important factor in healthcare that has many facets. Quality should never be compromised and always kept to the highest level, even though many people have different ideas of what quality is. My employer has certain steps they take to ensure that the quality of care remains high with little interference. For example, during the hours of nursing staff med pass to patients we are not to speak with the nurses about anything. There are signs posted everywhere to remind us that this will reduce medication errors and ensure a higher quality of care. Orlando Health revolves around a “patient first” model. This model is very unique, because it places the patient at the center of care verses fitting into a system.  

Quality is a very broad word with different meanings to each individual.  What I might consider good quality, you may consider poor. But on a whole, there is a standard that must be met. Placing patient’s safety first in all realms can ensure quality. We must also remember that quantity does not mean quality. But if we provide good quality, quantity will inevitably follow.