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Development of quality indicators based on a multidisciplinary, evidence-based guideline on pediatric constipation

Jozette J C Stienen1, Merit M Tabbers, Marc A Benninga

  • 1Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. J.Stienen@iq.umcn.nl

European Journal of Pediatrics
|April 14, 2011
PubMed

Insights

This study developed seven quality indicators for childhood functional constipation care. These indicators help assess and improve the quality of diagnosis and treatment for children with this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Healthcare Quality Improvement
  • Clinical Guideline Development

Background:

  • Clinical guidelines for childhood functional constipation exist, but lack associated quality indicators.
  • Assessing care quality in daily practice is crucial for guideline implementation.
  • Quality indicators are essential tools for monitoring and improving healthcare delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a set of quality indicators for the diagnosis and treatment of functional constipation in children.
  • To establish measurable indicators for assessing the quality of care provided to pediatric patients with functional constipation.
  • To create a tool for monitoring healthcare quality based on existing guidelines and expert consensus.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized the Dutch evidence-based multidisciplinary guideline for functional constipation in children (0-18 years).
  • Incorporated expert opinions from healthcare professionals and patients.
  • Employed a RAND-modified Delphi method to assess 84 potential quality indicators.

Main Results:

  • A final set of seven quality indicators was identified.
  • The set includes one structure and six process quality indicators.
  • Indicators cover diagnosis, medical and non-medical treatment, and referral aspects of care.

Conclusions:

  • A systematic method was used to develop seven quality indicators for childhood functional constipation.
  • These indicators provide a framework for monitoring the quality of healthcare for children with functional constipation.
  • The developed indicators can facilitate the implementation and evaluation of clinical guidelines in practice.

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