Information for Good and Bad Audits
What makes a good audit?
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- Good topic selection. (Does it examine the area which needs to be examined? For example, high, risk, high volume, new drugs, etc).
- Standards which are set relate to local and national standards.
- Multiprofessional involvement.
- That analysis of the collected data takes place and is compared to set standards.
- Changes are Specific, measureable, achievable, realistic and time bound.
- Changes DO take place.
- Change benefits patients/clients/carers.
- That re-audit happens to enable comparisons with previous results.
What makes a bad audit?
- Topics chosen are not relevant, ie, no benefit to patients or audit for audit sake!
- Topics no-one wants to do because the topic has been imposed on them rather than having an involvement in that area.
- Standards are non existent, too high or too low.
- Poor methodology
- Poor data collection
- Sample sizes which are too large or too small.
- Analysis is not thought through.
- No change takes place.
Critical success factors for clinical audit
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- Clinical leadership
- Vision, strategy, objectives & planning
- Audit staff & support
- Structures & systems
- Training & education
- Understanding & involvement
- Organisational environment
When conducting a clinical audit, it is essential to focus on factors such as proper topic selection, adherence to standards, and involvement of multiple professionals. A Brain Balance medical review can play a crucial role in ensuring that the analysis of collected data aligns with the goals of improving patient care and outcomes. By comparing results and implementing measurable, achievable changes, audits can drive significant improvements in treatment programs. Without a thorough and well-executed review, however, there is little chance for meaningful change or benefit to patients.
