Protocol for assessing the determinants of preoperative test-ordering behaviour for low-risk surgical procedures using a theoretically driven, qualitative design

Pike, Andrea; Mahoney, Krista; Patey, Andrea M.; Inwood, Samantha; Mortazhejri, Sameh; Lawrence, Rebecca; Hall, Amanda

doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2019-036511

Cited by 2 publications

(3 citation statements)

References 33 publications

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“…This was an exploratory, qualitative study conducted using semi-structured interviews to understand HCPs’ barriers and enablers to de-implementing low-value preoperative testing. The protocol for this study was previously published [ 29 ]. This study was reported according to the Consolidated criteria for Reporting Qualitative research (COREQ) checklist [ 30 ].…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…No changes were made to the guide after pilot testing with our key informant. Please see the published study protocol for a copy of the interview guide [ 29 ].…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Again, any domains with κ<0.8 were reviewed and coded to consensus. Please see the published protocol for this study for a copy of the codebook [ 29 ].…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Barriers to reducing preoperative testing for low-risk surgical procedures: A qualitative assessment guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework

et al. 2022

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Introduction While numerous guidelines do not recommend preoperative tests for low risk patients undergoing low risk surgeries, they are often routinely performed. Canadian data suggests preoperative tests (e.g. ECGs and chest x-rays) preceded 17.9%-35.5% of low-risk procedures. Translating guidelines into clinical practice can be challenging and it is important to understand what is driving behaviour when developing interventions to change it. Aim Thus, we completed a theory-based investigation of the perceived barriers and enablers to reducing unnecessary preoperative tests for low-risk surgical procedures in Newfoundland, Canada. Method We used snowball sampling to recruit surgeons, anaesthesiologists, or preoperative clinic nurses. Interviews were conducted by two researchers using an interview guide with 31 questions based on the theoretical domains framework. Data was transcribed and coded into the 14 theoretical domains and then themes were identified for each domain. Results We interviewed 17 surgeons, anaesthesiologists, or preoperative clinic nurses with 1 to 34 years’ experience. Overall, while respondents agreed with the guidelines they described several factors, across seven relevant theoretical domains, that influence whether tests are ordered. The most common included uncertainty about who is responsible for test ordering, inability to access patient records or to consult/communicate with colleagues about ordering decisions and worry about surgery delays/cancellation if tests are not ordered. Other factors included workplace norms that conflicted with guidelines and concerns about missing something serious or litigation. In terms of enablers, respondents believed that clear institutional guidelines including who is responsible for test ordering and information about the risk of missing something serious, supported by improved communication between those involved in the ordering process and periodic evaluation will reduce any unnecessary preoperative testing. Conclusion These findings suggest that both health system and health provider factors need to be addressed in an intervention to reduce pre-operative testing.

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Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…No changes were made to the guide after pilot testing with our key informant. Please see the published study protocol for a copy of the interview guide [ 29 ].…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%