What is in the PDSA Cycle?
The “Plan-Do-Study-Act” (PDSA) cycle is shorthand for testing a change — by planning it, trying it, observing the results, and acting on what is learned. This is the scientific method, used for action-oriented learning. Use of PDSA cycles is a way of testing an idea by putting a change into effect on a temporary basis and learning from its potential impact. This approach is quite different from the approach traditionally used in healthcare settings, where new ideas are often introduced without sufficient testing. A PDSA cycle involves testing change ideas on a small scale. By building on the learning from these test cycles in a structured and incremental way, a new idea can be implemented with a greater chance of success.
