Improving care standards for patients with spinal trauma combining a modiﬁed e-Delphi process and stakeholder interviews: a study protocol

BMJ Open, 2017 · DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012377 · Published: January 1, 2017

Simple Explanation

This study aims to develop 'expertly defined' and agreed standards of care across the majority of disciplines involved for patients with traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI). A modified e-Delphi process will be used to gain consensus for best practice across specific clinical early care areas for the patient with TSCI. The overall aim is the agreement to a consistent approach to the triage, treatment, transport and definitive care of acute TSCI victims.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Clinicians across Australia with relevant expertise, patients, and key stakeholders

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The study will obtain expert consensus on specific agreed practice standards and associated ‘best practice’ models of care in the acute postinjury period for patients with TSCI.
2
The research aims to identify drivers (barriers and facilitators) of ‘best practice’, namely clinician, organisational or policy factors.
3
The project outlines a plan to employ a modified e-Delphi process to define the evidence-based best practices for implementation.

Research Summary

The study aims to develop agreed standards of care for patients with traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) due to inconsistent national care standards. A modified e-Delphi process will be used to achieve consensus on best practices in early care, involving clinicians across Australia and stakeholder interviews. The agreed practice standards will inform the development of a Clinical Pathway, offering a benchmark for state-wide and potentially national policy to improve patient outcomes and reduce economic costs.

Practical Implications

Clinical Pathway Development

The agreed-upon standards will be used to develop a clinical pathway for the care of patients with TSCI.

Policy Benchmarking

The standards will serve as a benchmark for statewide and potentially national policies related to TSCI care.

Improved Patient Outcomes

By addressing variations in early care and treatment, the project aims to achieve optimal patient outcomes and reduce economic costs.

Study Limitations

1
The views of respondents to the Delphi survey may differ from those experts who choose not to participate.
2
These clinicians may resist resultant drive to change policy and practice.
3
Some participants may not have expertise in all four areas.

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