Tip of the week: Help evaluators and practitioners interpret OPPE reports

Rather than using the terms “high” and “low” to describe thresholds, consider using “acceptable” and “excellent,” as this language better describes the intent of thresholds. (Remember, the goal of OPPE is to improve patient care.) However, if the medical staff is more familiar with different terms and finds them meaningful, the OPPE task force may continue using them to avoid confusion. Avoid terms such as “fair” because they create confusion over whether a result requires action or follow-up. Terms should clearly indicate when results meet minimum requirements.

This week’s tip is from The Complete Guide to OPPE: Strategies for Medical Staff Professionals, Physician Leaders, and Quality Directors by Evalynn Buczkowski, RN, BSN, MS; Valerie Handunge; and Wendy R. Crimp, BSN, MBA, CPHQ.