Question

Part I- Performance Measures- For each of the following scenarios, provide the numerator and denominator that you would use to determine the performance measure. For each, note if they are an outcome or a process measure. (3 points each)

1. Dr. Gallagher has anecdotally noticed patients who have received a spinal anesthetic are complaining more and more frequently of severe, persistent headache within four hours of surgery. He would like to investigate further. He comes to you, as the QM Specialist, for help setting up this review. Provide the numerator and denominator needed to determine the percentage of patients experiencing headaches within four hours of surgery.

Answer 1

Below are the numerator and denominator needed to determine the percentage of patients experiencing headaches within four hours of surgery:

Numerator = Number of patients experiencing headaches within four hours of surgery

Denominator = Total number of patients who have received surgery

Hence in order to determine the percentage of patients experiencing headaches within four hours of surgery, we need to have data about the number of patients experiencing headaches within four hours of surgery and total number of patients who have received surgery. Headaches are an outcome of the process of surgery conducted on the patients.