Audit, QI, Research Flashcards
What is your understanding of the term ‘audit’?
Formal review process that acknowledges an existing standard and collects data to assess whether the unit of study (e.g. ward, hospital, trust) is meeting that standard.
Why are audits important?
They are important as they provide an objective assessment of whether current evidence-based guidelines are being followed and proper care being delivered to our patients
Give an example of an audit/QIP/research project you have been involved in
I conducted an audit in my F2 year for the Surgical emergency assessment unit
I wanted to audit quality of care and outcomes of subcutaneous abscesses.
What is your understanding of the term ‘quality improvement’?
Formal process in which a problem is identified, data collected, and a solution implemented to improve clinical care, healthcare operations or services.
Consists of a PDSA Cycle: Plan, Do, Study, Act.
It differs from audit in that there is no set standard that you are comparing your data with. It involves identifying an issue, proposing and enacting a solution, and evaluating its impact.
What is your understanding of the term ‘research’?
Systematic and organised method of finding answers to questions by collecting data.
