Challenges to the Standardization of Trauma Data Collection in Burn, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, and Other Trauma Populations: A Call for Common Data Elements for Acute and Longitudinal Trauma Databases

Arch Phys Med Rehabil., 2019 · DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2018.10.004 · Published: May 1, 2019

Trauma Rehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study examines whether different trauma databases collect the same information in the same way. The researchers looked at five trauma databases, including ones for burn injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. They found that there were inconsistencies in how data was collected, which makes it difficult to compare information across databases.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Data dictionaries of 5 trauma databases

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Of the 30 data elements examined, 14 (47%) were present in all 5 databases.
2
Twelve of the 14 data elements present in all 5 databases exhibited differences in data values.
3
There were considerable differences in data values across the 5 databases as determined by the 3 reviewers.

Research Summary

This study demonstrates inconsistencies in the documentation of data elements in 5 common trauma databases. These discrepancies are a barrier to database harmonization and to maximizing the use of these databases through linking, pooling, and comparing data. A collaborative effort is required to develop a standardized set of elements for trauma research.

Practical Implications

Improved Data Sharing

Standardized data elements would facilitate data sharing and collaboration among researchers.

Enhanced Research

Common data elements would allow for meta-analyses and comparisons of studies, maximizing research on trauma outcomes.

Better Patient Care

Harmonized data collection can improve outcomes and reduce the costs of innovative research, leading to better patient care.

Study Limitations

1
No standard list of trauma databases or trauma data elements exists.
2
This study is not necessarily representative of all trauma data collection methods.
3
The databases chosen largely represent data elements collected in the United States in the English language. This limits the generalizability of the study’s findings.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Trauma