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Use of key performance indicators in histological dissection
Matthew Griffiths1, Rachel Gillibrand2
1School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|August 21, 2017
Summary
This study developed key performance indicators and training for histological surgical dissection, significantly reducing practice variation and improving standards in pathology. The combined approach enhanced standardization for a modern pathology service.
Area of Science:
- Histopathology
- Biomedical Science
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- National Health Service (NHS) reports highlight the need for quality assurance in pathology.
- Existing external quality assurance schemes do not cover histological surgical dissection.
- Histological dissection is an evolving field with increasing involvement of biomedical scientists, lacking formal quality assurance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a quality assurance method for histological surgical dissection.
- To establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for dissection practice.
- To reduce variation and improve standardization in histological dissection.
Main Methods:
- Developed KPIs based on Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) and Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) guidance.
- Utilized checklists for individual practice assessment, identifying variations.
- Implemented feedback events and training to address identified weaknesses and share strengths.
Main Results:
- Initial data revealed significant variation in dissection practices.
- Checklists alone reduced practice variation.
- The addition of training events further decreased variation, demonstrating effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Training events effectively reduce practice variation among dissectors.
- The developed tools enhance standardization in histological dissection.
- This approach directly addresses the needs of modern pathology services by driving up standards.
