The learning from audits of office procedures is often as
significant in terms of improving patient care, as the learning
from clinical audit. For this reason, the same format and guidance
should be followed as for clinical audits. Ensure that what
you are submitting is an audit, not a survey!
For further information see the QPA handbook: pages 88-90 (
version 8); 90-92 (version 9); 85-87 (version 10) or phone for
advice; or send an example for some feedback.
How large should the sample be for an
audit?
Audit a sensible size, i.e. if only 50 patients have the
condition, audit all, otherwise a random sample of good size will
be acceptable.
For further information see the QPA handbook: Audits (Versions 8, 9
& 10).
Is there a set timescale within which to
re-audit?
No, but make sure the evidence is less than two years old.
Can Wound Management, Obesity and Smoking be
incorporated into the management plans and audits?
Example scenario: The nursing team has come up with some
suggestions for management plans and audits. They have suggested
Wound Management, Obesity and Smoking. Are any of these
suitable?
Answer: As this section includes disease areas not covered in
the Quality and Outcomes Framework, the nurses could work on Wound
Management or Obesity but should omit Smoking.
For further information see the QPA handbook: Section 3
Can the audit and case study workload for one
Health Visitor be adjusted?
Example scenario: There is one Health Visitor in the practice
who is not based in the building and works part time. Can they just
do one audit and one case study, since the workload seems
disproportionate otherwise?
Answer: We are very aware that this section can look daunting for
some teams. All the criteria for QPA have to be met in order for
the practice to receive the award, so non-completion may mean that
the practice cannot apply. Remember to remind your community nurses
that they can use QPA work for their PREP (CPD). The guide to
support nurses and midwives working towards QPA is still available,
but has moved to: http://www.nhshealthquality.org/nhsqis/files/qpaguide.pdf.
If your PCO is simply unable to recruit a Health Visitor, or if
there is long-term absence, please phone us for advice specific to
your circumstances.