Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset: factors that impact upon the data quality.
OBJECTIVE
The Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset (VEMD) records details of approximately 80% of Victoria's ED presentations. Its usefulness for quality assurance and research relies on the data being both complete and accurate. We aimed to determine the factors that impact adversely on the collection of high-quality VEMD data.


METHODS
The study was a voluntary, anonymous, cross-sectional survey of a range of ED staff (medical, nursing, clerical) who collect and enter data into the VEMD. Nine of the 28 hospitals that contribute to the VEMD were surveyed. The questionnaire was purpose-designed and self-administered.


RESULTS
A total of 218 staff participated (response rate 95%). Six different software types were used, with 40% of respondents using the Pickware (MCAT) system. There was no consistency of ED personnel for the completion of specific data fields. One hundred and twenty-six (56%) respondents had heard of the VEMD, 67 (29%) had had its structure and purpose explained and 65 (30%) had been trained to enter data. Ninety-seven (45%) respondents knew what the VEMD data was used for, 38 (17%) knew they could request VEMD data for their own use and 17 (7.8%) had done so. Time constraints, software problems and lack of formal orientation and training in data entry were reported as the most important factors impacting adversely upon quality data entry.


CONCLUSIONS
Staff knowledge of the VEMD system and its uses are poor. Numerous factors impact on the quality of data entered and interventions aimed at improving staff education, training and feedback and software are indicated.
Marson
Rebecca
R
Emergency Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. rebecca.marson@mh.org.au
Taylor
David McD
DM
Ashby
Karen
K
Cassell
Erin
E
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000379:methods; D012984:Software / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014739:Victoria