Knowledge support for ankle fractures in the Swedish Fracture Register – a qualitative study of physicians’ experiences

Abstract

Abstract Background The aim of this study is to investigate the experiences of physicians presented with a knowledge support system while registering data on ankle fractures in the Swedish Fracture Register. The present study aims to answer the following research questions: • “How is receiving knowledge support while registering a fracture in the Swedish Fracture Register experienced by the physicians using it?”. • “Can a feeling of increased usability of a quality register be achieved by providing the user with real-time feedback?”. Methods A total of 20 physicians using the Swedish Fracture Register were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy. Qualitative content analysis was performed on individual semi-structured interviews performed in May and June 2020. Results The present study demonstrates that the knowledge support system in the Swedish Fracture Register was perceived by the physicians as strengthening the evidence base and improving the quality of ankle fracture treatment. The knowledge support system was evaluated as a good tool for validating clinical decisions and managing the information that needs to be processed to make informed decisions. Conclusions The present study affirms that being provided with knowledge support is appreciated by physicians, increase value for work and enhance the initiative to register. The physicians experienced that the knowledge support provided an appreciated validation of the clinical decisions taken and a feeling of improved care. When incorporating knowledge support into an NQR, consideration must be given to physicians’ fears of becoming overly reliant on a template and losing control of the clinical base.

Keywords

• Knowledge support
• Swedish Fracture Register
• Ankle Fracture
• Semi structured interviews