Setting thresholds for quality indicators derived from MDS data for nursing home quality improvement reports: an update

TitleSetting thresholds for quality indicators derived from MDS data for nursing home quality improvement reports: an update
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2000
AuthorsRantz M.J, Petroski G.F, Madsen R.W, Mehr D.R, Popejoy L., Hicks L.L, Porter R., Zwygart-Stauffacher M., Grando V.
JournalJoint Commission Journal on Quality Improvement
Volume26
Issue2
Pagination101-10
Date PublishedFeb
Accession Number10672507
Keywords*Nursing Homes/st [Standards], *Quality Indicators, Health Care/st [Standards], *Total Quality Management, Activities of Daily Living, Comparative Study, Delphi Technique, Feedback, Questionnaires, Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S., United States
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Determining meaningful thresholds to reinforce excellent performance and flag potential problem areas in nursing home care is critical for preparing reports for nursing homes to use in their quality improvement programs. This article builds on the work of an earlier panel of experts that set thresholds for quality indicators (QIs) derived from Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment data. Thresholds were now set for the revised MDS 2.0 two-page quarterly form and Resource Utilization Groups III (RUGS III) quarterly instrument. SETTING THRESHOLDS: In a day-long session in October 1998, panel members individually determined lower (good) and upper (poor) threshold scores for each QI, reviewed statewide distributions of MDS QIs, and completed a follow-up Delphi of the final results. REPORTING MDS QIS FOR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT: The QI reports compiled longitudinal data for all residents in the nursing home during each quarter and cumulatively displayed data for five quarters for each QI. A resident roster was provided to the nursing home so that the quality improvement team could identify the specific residents who developed the problems defined by each QI during the last quarter. Quality improvement teams found the reports helpful and easy to interpret. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS: As promised in an earlier report, to ensure that thresholds reflect current practice, research using experts in a panel to set thresholds was repeated as needed. As the MDS instrument or recommended calculations for the MDS QIs change, thresholds will be reestablished to ensure a fit with the instrument and data.

Short TitleJt Comm J Qual ImprovJt Comm J Qual Improv
Alternate JournalJt Comm J Qual Improv