ABSTRACT
This study assesses the effects of a status asthmaticus guideline on patient outcome and pediatrician behavior in a staff model health maintenance organization (HMO). The guidelines were drafted by an asthma specialist in the HMO and then discussed with key clinical personnel. A preprinted protocol order form was developed to help implement the guideline into clinical practice. The medical records of pediatric patients admitted to the hospital with status asthmaticus before (N = 67) and after (N = 59) guideline development and implementation were reviewed. This study demonstrates that locally developed, treatment-specific guidelines based on scientific evidence and combined with a staff consensus process and a user-friendly protocol form can influence physician behavior and patient outcome positively.
Subject(s)
Outcome Assessment, Health Care , Pediatrics/standards , Practice Guidelines as Topic , Status Asthmaticus/therapy , Adolescent , California , Child , Child, Preschool , Chronic Disease , Clinical Protocols/standards , Female , Forms and Records Control , Health Maintenance Organizations/organization & administration , Health Maintenance Organizations/standards , Hospitalization , Humans , Infant , Male , Pilot Projects , Status Asthmaticus/diagnosisABSTRACT
Standardized Care Plans reflect the expected, accepted, normal nursing care and outcome of a patient with a specific diagnosis, problem, or condition. The patient's progress can therefore be evaluated against the expected outcome.
