Pie charts, also referred to as circle charts or circle graphs, represent data in a cir- cular form resembling a pie. The graph is divided into labeled sections to visualize both absolute amounts or occurrences and relative proportions of the amount or frequency of data in each of the graph’s sections. The sections of a pie chart are not only labeled (with numbers or percentages) but also color coded, which adds to their ease of use for readers. Pie charts are helpful when you need to compare groups of data quickly, as readers can easily compare the data to see how large each “slice” of data is and how these slices compare to the others in the chart. Familiar uses of pie charts include illustrating the distribution mix in an investment portfolio, results of public-opinion surveys, and a wide variety of demographic sta- tistics. Figure 13.5 provides a sample pie chart illustrating the number and types of nutritional supplements ordered for patients in an intensive care unit during a 1-month period.
FIGURE 13.5 Sample pie chart
Number and Types of Nutritional Supplements Ordered for Patients in the Intensive Care Unit in January 2020
Nonfat High Fiber 4 Renal 20 10 High Calorie/Protein 45 Diabetic
Process Improvement Step 3: Assess and Determine How Best to Improve the Process
Once a potential problem is identified, a systematic approach to analyzing data helps the team understand the reasons for process variation and poor performance and identify the root cause or causes of the issues and the systems involved. It is essen- tial that the root causes identified are substantiated by the data collected in step 2. Some of the common tools used in this process are discussed in this section. No matter which tool is utilized, it is helpful to gather input from the members of the team in a process called brainstorming.
276 EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT IN NUTRITION & DIETETICS 15 30 High Calorie