Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Accuracy in Dental Medicine, A New Way to Measure Trueness and Precision
Published on: April 29, 2014
New tools to measure discrepancy between prescribing practices and guideline recommendations
Catherine Mercier1, Jean-Pierre Boissel, Jacques Estève
1Service de Biostatistique, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France. catherine.mercier@chu-lyon.fr
Objective:
To study the performance of a new method designed to measure discrepancy between real prescriptions and evidence-based reference treatments.
Methods:
Two different indices (additive and multiplicative) are proposed to summarize deviation between prescription and reference. Deviations thought to be observed in a population of prescribers are simulated in diverse hypothetical situations in the presence or absence of evidence-based references. The performances of both indices are compared and their sensitivities to change are explored.
Results:
Both indices are sensitive to variation in prescriber behaviour. The additive index allows a more accurate analysis of deviation while the multiplicative index is simpler to implement and interpret but more sensitive to change.
Conclusion:
The two deviation indices may be used as new tools in surveys or trials dealing with prescribing practices.
Related Concept Videos
Dosage Regimen: Individualization
Dosage Regimens: Designs and Approaches
Guidelines for Nursing Documentation I
Factual:
The following points emphasize the significance of upholding accurate and unbiased documentation in healthcare.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: Drug Analysis Methods
Guidelines For Measuring Vital Signs
Before taking a patient's vital signs, a nurse would consider and assess the patient's comfort level and ensure appropriate equipment is available.
Dosage Regimen Designs: Nomograms and Tabulations