Outcome scales: An observational study of the use of continuous clinical outcome assessment and therapy management in neurosurgery

Abstract

Question: Quality management and the assessment of patient outcome are gaining increasing importance in clinical medicine. Politicians, beneficiaries of medical treatment and the general public alike wish to have the best possible medical service at the lowest possible cost. We aimed to develop a system that would allow assessment of medical and surgical procedures by using a short, easy-to-use form documenting key outcomes on a daily basis during the normal clinical routine. Method: A standardised daily evaluation protocol was developed based on established clinical scales. To facilitate its use in daily routine, each item/ domain was scored on a 5-point scale and the form was structured on a standard A4 sheet of paper. Data were entered into a customised database integrated into the hospital's existing administration IT-system. Results: The system allowed daily documentation of different aspects of patient care. It included original and modified clinical scales as well as information on patient satisfaction with treatment and general well-being. Data were processed digitally with standard software and used to analyse progress and outcome as well as adverse events occurring during treatment. Conclusion: The documentation system provides medical staff with a checklist for rounds and allows systematic and standardised evaluation of clinical progress, complications, neurological deficits and patient satisfaction throughout the treatment process.