Module 4, Question 2 Response

Nursing data quality is absolutely critical in proper decision support. A good decision is based on evidence and usually that evidence is in the form of data. If the data collected is not correct, complete, or thorough, this opens the doors for errors in decision making and could result in an unwanted or unplanned outcome. In some situations, inaccurate data could even lead to disability or death if the situation is critical enough. Errors in data collection occur easily, whether they be from improper transfer from paper documents to computer charts, poor handwriting on paper charts, wrong patient errors, miscommunications, or other forms. I believe it is the responsibility of each healthcare provider working with each patient to review the most recent data and assure accuracy and completeness. It there is a mistake made due to poor data quality, it is the mistake of all involved. It is also important to assure that data collected from each patient is correct. For example, if a patient is a poor historian, it is important to ask a close family member or friend about medical history, or is a patient can't remember exactly their home medications, the bottles should be brought in so that correct data is collected and correct medication therapy is implemented in the hospital. High data quality and correct data collection and recording is necessary to make appropriate decisions that best benefit each patient.