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12 September 2011
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Q. What are examples of acceptable Clinical Audit?

A. Clinical audit is recognised as having three elements:

  1. Measurement - measuring a specific element of clinical practice.
  2. Comparison - comparing results with the recognised standard (in circumstances where comparison is possible).
  3. Evaluation - reflecting on outcome of audit and changing practice accordingly.

Examples of acceptable clinical audit include:

  • Measurement of individual compliance with guidelines protocols (one per year).
  • Double reading.
  • Simulator training (ACLS, etc).
  • Skills analysis.
  • Department/practice audit.
  • Directly Observed Procedures (DOPS).
  • Individual Practice review.
  • Evaluation of individual risk incidents/complaints.
  • Patient satisfaction.
  • Self assessment.
  • Peer review.
  • Work Site Visits (Occupational Medicine).

It is recognised that audit structures in Ireland will change over coming years and practitioners will be able to measure outcomes as determined by National Treatment Programmes currently being developed by National Directorate of Clinical Strategy and Programmes.

Source of information: Medical Council