Improving the management of midnight data to enhance evidence-based decision making

Introduction: Hospitals collect and store massive amounts of data. Developing better 'Information Systems' to manage these data more efficiently had been a challenge during the past decades, and automation was considered by many as the way forward.

Method: An interventional project with predominantly qualitative methodology was carried out to implement and then assess a manual and computer-based intervention for management of midnight data at Base Hospital, Horana. Key Informant Interviews, Focus Group Discussions, and document reviews were the key components of the qualitative arm of the study. A satisfaction survey was subsequently conducted among the nursing staff, and selected indicator values were measured pre and post-implementation.

Results: Following the pre-interventional analysis, the modified data management system was introduced to address the gaps in the system. The post-interventional analysis revealed that the modified system has better and user-friendly collecting, reporting and analysing tools, enhanced data dissemination capabilities and favourable outcome with the inbuilt system to identify data errors. Satisfaction among the nursing staff demonstrated visible improvement.

Conclusion: The study recommends a gradual introduction of process modification and automation of the midnight data management system at Base Hospital Horana.