BACKGROUND
Data visualization experts have identified core principles to follow when creating visual displays of data that facilitate comprehension. Such principles can be applied to creating effective reports for clinicians that display compliance with quality improvement protocols. A basic tenet of implementation science is continuous monitoring and feedback. Applying best practices for data visualization to reports for clinicians can catalyze implementation and sustainment of new protocols.
OBJECTIVE
To apply best practices for data visualization to create reports that clinicians find clear and useful.
METHODS
First, we conducted a systematic literature review to identify best practices for data visualization. We applied these findings and feedback collected via a questionnaire to improve the Fall TIPS Monthly Report (FTMR), which shows compliance with an evidence-based fall prevention program, Fall TIPS (Tailoring Interventions for Patient Safety). This questionnaire was based on the requirements for effective data display suggested by expert Stephen Few. We then evaluated usability of the FTMR using a 15-item Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale (Health-ITUES). Items were rated on a 5-point Likert scale from strongly disagree (1) to strongly agree (5).
RESULTS
The results of the systematic literature review emphasized that the ideal data display maximizes the information communicated while minimizing the cognitive efforts involved with data interpretation. Factors to consider include selecting the correct type of display (e.g. line vs bar graph) and creating simplistic reports. The qualitative and quantitative evaluations of the original and final FTMR revealed improved perceptions of the visual display of the reports and their usability. Themes that emerged from the staff interviews emphasized the value of simplified reports, meaningful data, and usefulness to clinicians. The mean (SD) rating on the Health-ITUES scale when evaluating the original FTMR was 3.86 (0.19) and increased to 4.29 (0.11) when evaluating the revised FTMR (Mann Whitney U Test, z=-12.25, P<0.001).
CONCLUSIONS
Best practices identified through a systematic review can be applied to create effective reports for clinician use. The lessons learned from evaluating FTMR perceptions and measuring usability can be applied to creating effective reports for clinician use in the context of other implementation science projects.
Foreword: Pediatric hydrocephalus: systematic literature review and evidence-based guidelines
