Using data analytics to enhance quality improvement projects

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With the introduction of electronic health record systems in healthcare organisations, there is a significant opportunity within nursing, and as part of the multidisciplinary team, to access a wealth of data and use this to drive improvements in patient care and outcomes. Quality improvement has often involved the collection of data via manual audit, a time-consuming process with data fed back from small sample sizes over a short time period. In contrast, a data analytics approach enables data collection from larger sample sizes to be automated and for data to be presented in a way that is easy for staff to access and interpret. This article discusses the benefits and challenges of a data analytics approach as well as the resources required, the importance of stakeholder involvement, the setting and review of key performance indicators and how to optimise data presentation to achieve the greatest effect.
Who is this resource for?
Explains what the component is for
This resource is aimed at nurses and nursing support workers across all settings and levels of practice, including students of health, social work and care professions.
Why you should read this article
to recognise that the use of data analytics in healthcare and nursing practice can enhance the effectiveness of quality improvement projects
to increase your understanding of using data analytics and optimal presentation of results
to contribute towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD (UK readers)
to contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers)