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- Title
Data: The Real D in Decision Making.
- Authors
McDiarmid, Sheryl
- Abstract
In a knowledge economy, comprehensive and accurate data are arguably the most important resource needed for sound decision making and for process improvement initiatives. However, the collection and use of data in a systematic, purpose-driven manner by health care professionals is sporadic. The Corporate Vascular Access Device (CVAD) Program, led by an advanced practice nurse (APN), was established at The Ottawa Hospital (TOH) in 2008. Early on, the APN designed the Microsoft Access Database V-ASK to capture data on patient demographics, diagnosis, reason for central line insertion, type of line, date and reason for removal, and complications associated with the device. To date, extensive data have been collected on over 16,000 central lines, including peripherally inserted central catheters, subcutaneous ports, and tunnelled catheters. Data have also been captured on over 6,000 problems and subsequent interventions related to the catheters inserted. This article describes the process used for the development of a comprehensive database where data are easily entered and readily available to every member of the team (i.e., the APN and the registered nurses who insert the access devices). The author also illustrates how each piece of data is used several times internally to support practice, decrease resource utilization, and improve patient outcomes. Externally, the data have also been used by a wide variety of physician clinicians and researchers to publish on specific aspects related to central vascular access. The CVAD team at TOH has become a leader in vascular access through the knowledge gained from data generated by the nursing team responsible for central line insertion and maintenance.
- Subjects
MEDICAL decision making; MICROSOFT Access (Computer software); DIAGNOSIS; OTTAWA Hospital (Ottawa, Ont.); CENTRAL venous catheters
- Publication
Vascular Access, 2012, Vol 6, Issue 2, p21
- ISSN
1913-6692
- Publication type
Article