title: Use facilitated case discussions for significant event auditing.
abstract: An important type of review undertaken routinely in health care teams is analysis of individual cases. This informal process can be turned into a structured and effective form of audit by using an adaptation of the "critical incident" technique in facilitated case discussions. Participants are asked to recall personal situations that they feel represent either effective or ineffective practice. From such review of individual cases arise general standards to improve the quality of care. On the basis of a study of audit of deaths in general practice, we describe how to implement such a system, including forming and maintaining the discussion group, methodology, and guidelines for facilitators. Problems that may arise during the case discussions are outlined and their management discussed, including problems within the team and with the process of the discussions.
authors.affiliation: Department of Primary Health Care, Medical School, University of Newcastle upon Tyne.
authors.forename: L A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Robinson
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Stacy
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Spencer
authors.forename: R S
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Bhopal
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D008485:Medical Audit / Q000379:methods*; D010348:Patient Care Team