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Quality indicators for the adult epilepsy monitoring unit
Author(s) -
Sauro Khara M.,
Wiebe Samuel,
Macrodimitris Sophie,
Jetté Nathalie
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
epilepsia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.687
H-Index - 191
eISSN - 1528-1167
pISSN - 0013-9580
DOI - 10.1111/epi.13563
Subject(s) - delphi method , quality (philosophy) , delphi , quality management , patient safety , performance indicator , medicine , computer science , operations management , health care , business , engineering , marketing , epistemology , artificial intelligence , economics , economic growth , management system , philosophy , operating system
Summary Objective Quality and safety in epilepsy monitoring units ( EMU s) are of great importance because patients’ seizures are induced rather than prevented in this hospital setting. However, the measurement and evaluation of quality and safety in EMU s are heterogeneous, as are practices and processes of care. To improve the measurement of quality and safety in EMU s, we sought to develop evidence‐based and consensus‐driven quality indicators, adhering to previously described methodologic standards. Methods Candidate quality indicators were identified using a recent systematic review on quality and safety indicators in EMU s. These were supplemented by expert opinion to identify other indicators that had not been reported previously. The candidate quality indicators were then evaluated using a modified Delphi technique among a multidisciplinary EMU quality improvement team. Candidate indicators identified as important and feasible through the Delphi technique were then developed into quality metrics. Results Thirty‐four candidate indicators were abstracted from 135 studies included in the earlier systematic review, and two additional candidate indicators were suggested through consensus from experts. Consensus was reached after two modified Delphi rounds for 25 quality indicators identified as important. These 25 indicators were then developed into quality metrics using a standardized data collection form and were deployed in an online database for systematic data capture and further analyses. Significance These quality indicators have the potential to improve the reporting of quality and safety in EMU s through standardized measurement and evaluation of the quality and safety of care. The ultimate goal is improved patient care and clinical outcomes through safer and better care for people with epilepsy in the EMU .