Effect of Clinical Pathway Application on Outcome of Children Having Diarrheal Diseases

Abstract

Clinical Pathways (CP), are one of the main tools used to manage the quality in healthcare concerning the standardization of care processes. It is proven that their implementation reduces the variability in clinical practice and improves outcomes. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effect of clinical pathway application on outcome of children having diarrheal diseases. Research Design: A quasi experimental designed was utilized in this study. Research settings: This study was conducted at Pediatric Department affiliated to Beni Suef University Hospital and General Beni Suef Hospital. Research subjects: A purposive sample included (90) children admitted to the Pediatric Department who having diarrheal disease was selected from previous mentioned settings. Tools of data collection: Five tools were involved; A Pre-designed Questionnaire Sheet; Medical record; Patient assessment data sheet; Complication monitor sheet; A clinical pathway design to implement and evaluate the study group only. Results: The study revealed that there was a statistically significant differences between study and control group after the implementation of the clinical pathway for the study compared with routine hospital policy care for the control group manifested by less hospital stay, fewer complications and less readmission. Conclusion: It was concluded that, Children having diarrheal disease to whom clinical pathway was applied had fewer complications, less hospital stay and less readmission after discharge, that compared by children who received routine hospital care. Recommendation: It was recommended that application of clinical pathway for children having diarrheal disease was essential for reducing complications, less hospital stay and less readmission and it should be applied as a routine nursing care in the hospitals.