Reducing the rate of unregistered studies.
The aim of this audit cycle is to measure the extent to which unregistered or wrongly classified studies (research, clinical audit, satisfaction surveys/service evaluations) are conducted within a National Health Service (NHS) Trust, and to ascertain whether promotion of the correct processes can improve the results. An anonymous questionnaire was sent to staff in a single NHS Trust via internal post and email concerning unregistered or wrongly classified studies being conducted. An information sheet was attached to the questionnaire, which gave a brief description and information relating to conducting different types of study. The audit was conducted before and after the introduction of a variety of promotional activities within the Research and Development (R&D) department. The percentage of unregistered research was shown to be 45.8% in audit 1, with audit 2 showing a reduction in unregistered studies to 5.2% (P = 0.005). For clinical audits the results were similar between audits (with no additional promotion) (2.3-2.4%). Satisfaction surveys which were included in the promotion of the research department reduced its level of unregistered studies from 46% to 5% (P = 0.0084). With the targeted and persistent promotion of the relevant departments a dramatic reduction in unregistered studies can be achieved (P = 0.01).
Tattersall
Chris L
CL
Hywell Dda NHS Trust (Pembrokeshire & Mental Health/Learning Disability Divisions), Withybush General Hospital, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA61 2PZ, UK. clt06@aol.com
Peters
M
M
Tee
A
A
D006302:Health Services Research / Q000145:classification*; D033181:Information Dissemination; D012042:Registries; D012196:Review Literature as Topic; D013222:State Medicine; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom