FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

 

QPA

Where can I find advice on auditing office protocols?
How large should the sample be for an audit?
Is there a set timescale within which to re-audit?
Can Wound Management, Obesity and Smoking be incorporated into the management plans and audits?
Can the audit and case study workload for one Health Visitor be adjusted? 

 

Where can I find advice on auditing office protocols?

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.

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