Audits

Audits are a useful tool to assist with QUM (Quality Use of Medicines) by assessing and identifying areas for future quality improvements.

The objectives of audits include:

• Facilitating the development of appropriate processes and resources
• Guiding the development of education for staff and residents
• Providing an evaluation framework to assist in ongoing monitoring

Frequency of auditing will depend on a number of factors such as the rate of staff changes, the risk of medication misadventure and other local factors.

The number of residents audited will depend on the tool being used - it may be appropriate to include every resident meeting a certain criteria or perhaps a sample percentage of residents on a rotating basis.

The aim of QUM is to make the best possible use of medicines to improve health outcomes for every individual.

QUM means:

• Selecting management options wisely;
• Choosing suitable medicines if a medicine is considered necessary; and
• Using medicines safely and effectively.

 

PRN Consulting has developed a number of simple audits to assist in identifying areas for improvement.