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Measuring Safer Opioid Use in Hospitals: Development of Consensus-Based Safety and Quality Indicators - a modified
Abdullah Mutashar1, Martin L Canning1,2, Jodie Hillen1
1School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia.
Summary
Opioid harm in hospitals is a serious issue. This study developed 17 consensus-based safety and quality indicators (SQIs) for monitoring opioid use and improving patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Quality Improvement
- Patient Safety
- Medication Safety
Background:
- Opioids contribute significantly to preventable medication-related harm in Australian hospitals, including deaths and adverse events.
- There is a critical need for effective systems to ensure safe opioid use and monitor performance.
- Proactive monitoring and system improvements are essential to mitigate opioid-related risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a consensus-based suite of opioid-related safety and quality indicators (SQIs).
- To ensure these SQIs are evidence-informed, important, and feasible for routine monitoring across health services.
- To establish a foundation for enhanced patient safety in opioid management.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search identified potential SQIs.
- A multidisciplinary clinical reference group (CRG) used a modified Delphi electronic survey method.
- Indicators were rated on importance and feasibility using a 9-point Likert scale, with consensus defined by specific criteria.
Main Results:
- Out of 34 initially considered indicators, 17 reached consensus for importance and feasibility.
- The process involved literature review, CRG input, and multi-round surveys with high response rates.
- A total of 17 opioid-related safety and quality indicators were finalized.
Conclusions:
- Consensus was achieved on 17 opioid-related safety and quality indicators.
- These indicators are deemed important and feasible for implementation by a multidisciplinary group.
- Adoption of these SQIs will facilitate monitoring, reporting, and improvement of opioid medication safety systems, enhancing patient care.
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