title: [Use of the Six Sigma methodology for the preparation of parenteral nutrition mixtures].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To use the tools of the Six Sigma methodology for the statistical control in the elaboration of parenteral nutrition mixtures at the critical checkpoint of specific density.
  
  
  METHODS
  Between August of 2010 and September of 2013, specific density analysis was performed to 100% of the samples, and the data were divided in two groups, adults and neonates. The percentage of acceptance, the trend graphs, and the sigma level were determined. A normality analysis was carried out by using the Shapiro Wilk test and the total percentage of mixtures within the specification limits was calculated.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The specific density data between August of 2010 and September of 2013 comply with the normality test (W = 0.94) and show improvement in sigma level through time, reaching 6/6 in adults and 3.8/6 in neonates. 100% of the mixtures comply with the specification limits for adults and neonates, always within the control limits during the process.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The improvement plans together with the Six Sigma methodology allow controlling the process, and warrant the agreement between the medical prescription and the content of the mixture.
authors.affiliation: Jefe Mejoramiento de Calidad y Programa Seis Sigma. Hospital Universitario Fundación Santafé de Bogotá. Colombia.. ggiovannir@yahoo.es.
authors.forename: M F
authors.initials: MF
authors.lastname: Silgado Bernal
authors.affiliation: Jefe de Servicios Farmacéuticos. Hospital Universitario Fundación Santafé de Bogotá. Colombia..
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Basto Benítez
authors.affiliation: Coordinador de Aseguramiento de Calidad. Hospital Universitario Fundación Santafé de Bogotá. Colombia.. ggiovannir@yahoo.es.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Ramírez García
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004339:Drug Compounding / Q000379:methods*; D005526:Food, Formulated / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D010288:Parenteral Nutrition / Q000379:methods*