Outcome Measures in Hospitals, Essay Example

Outcome measures in hospitals are challenging to determine because they impact patients and healthcare professionals alike. These measures are critical in supporting a higher quality of patient care and treatment in all areas of the hospital setting. For example, the use of patient-based outcome measures has become increasingly important in addressing the quality of care and treatment that is likely to occur across hospitals (Dawson et.al, 2010). Patients often provide important and relevant information that will facilitate improved decision-making and support of greater quality of care for patients in all specialties (Dawson et.al, 2010).

Quality of life is another critical outcome measure that must continuously be addressed in order to accommodate the needs of patients to improve the standard of care that is provided over time (Tyedin et.al, 2010). It is expected that specific activities and procedures, including psychological support, may be effective in improving the quality of life for many patients, particularly when they experience specific ailments or other conditions (Tyedin et.al, 2010). Therefore, recognizing these opportunities is an important step towards the development of new perspectives to better treat patients in these settings in an effective manner (Tyedin et.al, 2010).

Finally, healthcare professionals should recognize that outcome measures serve as key drivers in their efforts to achieve successful outcomes for patients. These efforts are important because they provide greater benefits to patients and in improving the quality of care that is provided over the long term. This is a critical component of healthcare practice and in improving recovery rates and in minimizing the severity of illnesses in different ways so that the efforts that are made will expand patient outcomes. Outcome measures are instrumental in promoting a greater analysis of existing practice methods and how they impact patient care and treatment, as well as quality of life. Nurses must work proactively to better manage these concerns and to take these efforts seriously to achieve greater outcomes.

References

Dawson, J., Doll, H., Fitzpatrick, R., Jenkinson, C., and Carr, A.J. (2010). The routine use of patient reported outcome measures in healthcare settings. BMJ, 18, 340.

Tyedin, K., Cumming, T.B., and Bernhardt, J. (2010). Quality of life: an important outcome measure in a trial of very early mobilization after stroke. Disability and Rehabilitation, 32(11), 875-884.