Evaluating Asthma Audit - Experiences from practice

Citation

Hoskins G, Neville RG & Smith B (1998) Evaluating Asthma Audit - Experiences from practice. Asthma in General Practice, 6 (2), pp. 24-27. http://www.thepcrj.org/journ/vol9_2_and_earlier/GPIAG_Vol_6_No_2.pdf

Abstract
Objectives: To elicit how a clinical audit package is used within general practice and explore perceptions of audit as an educational tool. Design and subjects: Semi-structured interview of health professionals within eight selected general practices who participated in a National Audit of Asthma Management. Results: The audit process was found to be valuable in highlighting the strengths and weaknesses in asthma management. In seven out of the eight practices the lead person conducting the audit was a nurse. The most common problems encountered were time constraints, incomplete information in the notes and lack of a common working practice. Three practices complained of patients who did not attend for assessment, one complained that the audit had been imposed on her and two found the randomisation procedure difficult to follow. The feedback was found to be fair, relevant and thought provoking. Proposed changes were identified including updating of asthma lists and of recall systems, improved information recording, and an increased role and more training for nurses. The importance of repeating the audit was acknowledged. Conclusion: Clinical care of patients with asthma is enhanced by a multi-disciplinary approach. Audit of asthma care should likewise involve shared responsibilities and decision making by practice nurses and GPs.

Journal
Asthma in General Practice: Volume 6, Issue 2