When to use case review and when to use aggregate review in trauma PI

Authored by: 

Angie Chisolm, MBA/HCM, BSN, RN, CFRN, TCRN
President

One of the biggest challenges in trauma performance improvement is the sheer volume of cases that need to go through the Performance Improvement (PI) process. How can trauma programs ensure effective quality review without overburdening the PI coordinator, not to mention the Trauma Program Manager (TPM) and the Trauma Medical Director (TMD)?

In my experience, the key is to use the right mix of case-specific review and aggregate review.

I explained this approach in detail during our April 2025 webinar, Trauma PI Strategy: Leveraging “Case Review vs. Aggregate Review” for More Efficient Loop Closure.

In this article, I want to summarize the main points of this PI strategy, share some practical advice and also address some potential sources of confusion.

But before I dive in, one quick note: I do not represent the American College of Surgeons (ACS) in any capacity. This article is based solely on what I have learned while helping trauma centers nationwide achieve ACS compliance. Trauma program leaders should always refer to the ACS and/or their state’s designating body for official guidance on the standards and the site review process.

Read the full article on Trauma System News.