The patients entered on this pathway have a diagnosis of cancer, have developed neutropenia secondary to their cytotoxic regimen, have a temperature greater than 100.4, and require hospitalization for management. The multidisciplinary pathway was developed by the oncology pathway team. The process was initiated by researching best practice standards and benchmarking comparable hospitals to determine appropriate diagnostic tests and pharmacological interventions. Other optional tests on the pathway are signified by a blank line in front of the item. The physician may or may not order the test based on clinical judgment.
Quality assurance is maintained by monitoring pathway variances and outcomes on a daily basis.
The nurse completing the pathway uses codes to document variances on the pathway. Prior to discharge, the patient must meet the expected outcomes. The variances and outcomes are compiled and monitored. The data are then used to improve patient care and guide pathway revisions. The pathway was originally designed to accommodate a four-day hospital admission.