AHRQ Pediatric Safety Indicators - Other

What is the source of these Clinical Data comparisons?
The pediatric safety measures other shown below have been identified by the Agency for Healthcare Research (AHRQ) as being important indicators of care quality. Upstate Medical University participates in these evidence based data collections by making clinical information available to support such efforts.

The "AHRQ Target" shown in these comparisons is a calculated measure developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research, and it is based on risk adjustment information about Upstate Medical University patients. It reflects the fact that some patients are sicker than others or have preexisting conditions that make death more likely. These measures show Upstate Medical University actual and predicted outcomes as well as Upstate Medical Universities performance in relationship to other academic medical centers, as represented by the "Academic Centers' Median" shown.

What this means: This measures the percentage of cases of "decubitus ulcer" (also known as pressure sores or bedsores) for patients who have been in the hospital more than four days. Pressure sores can develop when a person is immobile and are more likely to occur among elderly or fragile patients.

Why is it important: Pressure sores can develop into wounds that are complicated to treat. A low rate is an indicator of good patient care process.

What this means: This indicator of the percentage of cases of pneumothorax caused by medical care. "Pneumothorax" is air in the chest, outside of the lung, which can cause the lung to collapse. "Iatrogenic" refers to any condition caused by medical or therapeutic care.

Why is it important: A small pneumothorax may resolve itself without treatment; a pneumothorax resulting from lung disease or injury requires immediate treatment.

What this means: This refers to the percentage of patients that have unintended injuries during a procedure among surgical patients.

Why is it important: A low rate is an indicator of good patient care process and techniques.

What this means: This indicates the percentage of infections resulting from hospitalization.

Why is it important: Good patient care process reduces the risk for this complication.