What is protocol-based care? A concept analysis.

Irene Ilott; Jo Rick; Malcolm Patterson; Christine Turgoose; Anne Lacey

doi:10.1111/j.1365-2934.2006.00703.x

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What is protocol-based care? A concept analysis.

Irene Ilott·Jo Rick·Malcolm Patterson·Christine Turgoose·Anne Lacey

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Abstract

AIM: To define protocol-based care to make this way of delivering health care amenable to theoretical and empirical studies. BACKGROUND: Although protocol-based care is associated with the evidence-based practice and standardization movements, it is an ill-defined and understood concept. METHOD: A multiphase concept analysis, inspired by an evolutionary view was used to clarify 'what is protocol-based care'. The inductive, five-phase process drew upon content analysis of policy documents and the literature, plus interviews with a purposive sample of 35 opinion leaders. RESULTS: The term was used interchangeably with protocols, pathways and guidelines in policy and guidance documents. A search of seven databases produced only 57 references to protocol-based care. The concept analysis revealed a continuum of scope and specificity and also distinguished specialist and generic applications of protocol-based care. CONCLUSIONS: Managers need to take cognizance of the significance and complexity of protocol-based care when introducing this way of working.

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Clinical Protocols Critical Pathways Evidence-Based Medicine Health Policy Humans Practice Guidelines as Topic Reference Standards Terminology as Topic United Kingdom Journal Article Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

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Irene Ilott, Jo Rick, Malcolm Patterson, Christine Turgoose, Anne Lacey. 2006. What is protocol-based care? A concept analysis.. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2934.2006.00703.x

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