Determining the Minimum Dataset for Surgical Patients in Africa: A Delphi Study

Background It is often difficult for clinicians in African low- and middle-income countries middle-income countries to access useful aggregated data to identify areas for quality improvement. The aim of this Delphi study was to develop a standardised perioperative dataset for use in a registry. Methods A Delphi method was followed to achieve consensus on the data points to include in a minimum perioperative dataset. The study consisted of two electronic surveys, followed by an online discussion and a final electronic survey (four Rounds). Results Forty-one members of the African Perioperative Research Group participated in the process. Forty data points were deemed important and feasible to include in a minimum dataset for electronic capturing during the perioperative workflow by clinicians. A smaller dataset consisting of eight variables to define risk-adjusted perioperative mortality rate was also described. Conclusions The minimum perioperative dataset can be used in a collaborative effort to establish a resource accessible to African clinicians in improving quality of care.

Automated summary

This study aimed to develop a standardized perioperative dataset for African clinicians to improve the quality of care. Using the Delphi method, consensus was achieved on including important data points in a minimum perioperative dataset through electronic surveys and online discussions. The results showed that a minimum dataset with 40 data points is important and feasible for electronic capturing during the perioperative workflow for clinicians.