Development of a Minimum Data Set (MDS) for C-Section Anesthesia Information Management System (AIMS)

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Health Informatics
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Caesarean section (C-section) is a prevalent global surgical procedure.
• Minimum Data Set (MDS) is crucial for healthcare information systems, aiding planning, management, and performance evaluation.
• MDS supports medical information management, enhancing care quality and disease control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the Minimum Data Set (MDS) for Anesthesia Information Management Systems (AIMS) specific to C-section procedures in Iran.
• To identify essential capabilities required for AIMS in the context of C-section anesthesia.

Main Methods:

• An initial data set was compiled from selected AIMS.
• 115 anesthesiologists reviewed and rated proposed data elements using a five-point Likert scale.
• Data elements rated as important or highly important by at least 75% of experts were included in the final MDS.

Main Results:

• A final MDS comprising 8 classes and 81 key data elements was established.
• Critical AIMS capabilities identified include airway management and the management of hypertension and hypotension.

Conclusions:

• Successful information system (IS) development necessitates user involvement and a focus on user needs.
• Careful assessment of MDS is vital, considering the intended data applications.
• IS must possess essential capabilities to effectively meet user requirements.