| Abstract | OBJECTIVE: To evaluate impact of a computer-based intervention on arterial blood gas
(ABG) usage in an intensive care setting. DESIGN: Retrospectively examined, via mixed group
analysis, the effects of the intervention on ABG usage in the intensive care unit (ICU).
SUBJECTS: Included all clinicians who placed ABG orders in an ICU using the computerized
physician order-entry system, as well as controls in non-order entry units. METHODS:
Computer-based intervention presenting ordering clinician with patient s previous ABG values
and limiting forward duration of tests ordered. Study spanned 12 weeks, 5 weeks
pre-intervention and 7-weeks post-intervention. Of 8 ICUs, intervention implemented in 6, not
implemented in 2. Data analyzed using the repeated measure ANOVA. RESULTS: Physicians
entered <40% ABG orders. 376 ABGs per week processed pre-intervention, 387 per week
post. Results nonsignificant with a p= 0.09. Orders placed declined from 1039 per week, Jan
2000 to 662 per week, April 2001. DISCUSSION: Study did not demonstrate significant
change; limited power. Need longer study periods. Impact improved in the future by targeting
physician users and tailoring intervention to specific work flow pattern of high utilization units. |