How well are asthma treatment cards filled out in public health centres in Gazeera State, Sudan?

Abstract

Four public district hospitals offering asthma treatment in Gazeera State, Sudan. Incomplete recording of patient data directly affects the quality of asthma care and the evaluation of asthma management programmes. To assess the completeness of filling out of treatment cards and accuracy of calculating peak expiratory flow (PEF) for confirming diagnosis and grading severity of asthma. Cross-sectional audit of asthma treatment cards from asthma centres, 2006-2012. Of 959 patient cards assessed, completeness ranged from 47% to 98%. Six of 13 variables had an unsatisfactory grade of completeness (<80% complete). Calculated PEF was indicated in 885 (92%) cards, but was correct in only 609 (69%). PEF variability was recorded in 835 (87%) cards, but was correctly calculated in 442 (53%). A scheduled follow-up visit was attended by only 359 (37%) patients, indicating 63% loss to follow-up. Contact telephone numbers were missing from 453 (47%) cards. This is the first study in Africa to assess the data completeness and integrity of asthma patient cards, identifying important shortcomings. This affects quality of management of asthma patients and programme evaluation. Steps to rectify this situation are urgently needed.