Table 3.

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders–Like Criteria to Support the Diagnosis of Plan Do Study Act–Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

A (either 1 or 2)
    1. InattentionSix (or more) of the following symptoms of inattention have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

  1. Often introduces a PDSA cycle without adequately collecting baseline data

  2. Often has difficulty completing a PDSA cycle before beginning an additional PDSA cycle in another area

  3. Unable to determine which PDSA cycle is being discussed

  4. Fails to complete PDSA cycles already begun, typically omitting the Study and Act portions.

  5. Often has difficulty organizing subsequent PDSA cycles

  6. Is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained or long-term change in behaviors or systems

  7. Frequently unable to remember who is in charge of each PDSA cycle

  8. Is easily distracted by new QI ideas

    2. Hyperactivity/impulsivitySix (or more) of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

  • i. Often contemplates new PDSA cycles while discussing current PDSA cycles

  • j. Often leaves one QI activity to participate in another (“meeting hopping”)

  • k. Feels restless during Study and Act phases of PDSA cycles

  • l. Every meeting includes at least one new PDSA cycle suggestion

  • m. Continuing to actively pursue QI programs and activities, even during periods of rest (eg, holidays)

  • n. Often talks excessively about PDSAs and QI, regardless of context

  • o. Often determines the results of a PDSA cycle before complete data collection

  • p. Interrupting PDSA cycles (eg, a new one begins before the completion of its predecessor)

  • q. Introduces interventions that interfere with existing systems and programs

BSome hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that caused impairment were present in early stages of organizational change activities.
CSome impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (eg, front office clinical operations, direct clinical care areas, administration, education planning).
DThere must be clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.

  • PDSA, Plan Do Study Act; QI, quality improvement.