There are two general types of data dictionaries: a database management system data dictionary and an organization-wide data dictionary. For this assignment, we are focusing on the organization-wide data dictionary. In a data dictionary, individual data elements and definitions are defined to ensure consistency and accuracy. Assume you need to collect and analyze data on patients discharged and readmitted to hospital X within 90 days of discharge. Develop the data dictionary for this study by completing the table below. Your data dictionary must include a minimum of 15 discreet data elements. Include information you would need to identify:
- the patient (Unique identifier)
- the admission(s)
- the reason for each admission (why the patient presented to the hospital emergency department)
- the principal diagnosis which is defined as the condition of the patient made after studying the patient and their admission to the hospital.
- the indicator for justified readmission or questionable readmission.
Guided response: Include at least 15 data elements and the rationale for each data element, using the format below and include
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
A data dictionary is an essential tool in ensuring consistency and accuracy in analyzing data. In this assignment, we will focus on developing a data dictionary for a study on patients discharged and readmitted to hospital X within 90 days of discharge.
Data Dictionary:
1. Unique identifier: The patient’s unique ID number would be used to track their medical records accurately.
2. Date of admission: The date on which the patient was admitted to the hospital would be recorded for reference.
3. Date of discharge: The date on which the patient was discharged from the hospital would be recorded for reference.
4. Primary care physician: The name and contact information of the patient’s primary care physician would be recorded to ensure seamless communication between the hospital and the physician.
5. Reason for admission: The reason why the patient was admitted to the hospital (i.e., chest pain, fever, etc.) would be recorded.
6. Chief complaint: The patient’s chief complaint while seeking medical attention would be recorded.
7. Vital signs: The patient’s vital signs (i.e., blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature) would be recorded at the time of admission.
8. Length of stay: The number of days the patient stayed in the hospital would be recorded to help track the patient’s progress.
9. Diagnosis: The diagnosis made by the attending physician would be recorded in the patient’s medical records.
10. Procedure(s) performed: Any procedure(s) performed on the patient during their stay would be recorded.
11. Discharge instructions: The patient’s discharge instructions (i.e., medication prescribed, follow-up appointments, and diet restrictions) would be recorded.
12. Readmission date: The date on which the patient was readmitted to the hospital would be recorded.
13. Reason for readmission: The reason for the patient’s readmission would be recorded.
14. Justification for readmission: The reason why the readmission was justified, or whether it was questionable or not, would be recorded.
15. Discharge status: The patient’s discharge status (i.e., home, hospice care, or another healthcare facility) would be recorded.
Rationale:
This data dictionary includes a minimum of 15 data elements that are essential for tracking and analyzing data on patients discharged and readmitted to hospital X within 90 days of discharge. These data elements help identify the patient, the admission(s), the reason for each admission, the principal diagnosis, and the indicator for justified or questionable readmission. Accurately collecting this information can help healthcare providers identify patterns and make informed decisions regarding patient care.
