Systematic review of the literature informing the systemic lupus erythematosus indicators project: reproductive health care quality indicators.
OBJECTIVE
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) primarily affects women of reproductive age. Here we summarize the scientific evidence supporting recently developed quality indicators (QIs) pertaining to reproductive health.


METHODS
We used a modification of the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method to develop QIs for SLE. We performed systematic reviews of the literature pertaining to each proposed indicator. Three indicators focusing on reproductive health were included in the final set. Relevant literature was presented to an expert panel, who rated the validity and feasibility of the indicators.


RESULTS
Three QIs were rated as valid and feasible. These indicators specifically address laboratory testing during pregnancy in SLE, the treatment of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and counseling for drugs with teratogenic potential.


CONCLUSIONS
We used a rigorous method to develop reproductive health QIs for SLE. In the future, these indicators can be used in the assessment and delivery of care to patients with SLE.
Gillis
JoAnn Zell
JZ
National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado 80206, USA. gillisj@njc.org
Panopalis
Pantelis
P
Schmajuk
Gabriela
G
Ramsey-Goldman
Rosalind
R
Yazdany
Jinoos
J
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D011247:Pregnancy; D019984:Quality Indicators, Health Care / Q000592:standards* / Q000639:trends; D018456:Reproductive Medicine / Q000592:standards* / Q000639:trends; D012189:Retrospective Studies