Audit shows improvements in ultrasound assessments and risk stratification for giant cell arteritis in 46 patients, indicating enhanced adherence to clinical guidelines.
Key Points
The audit aimed to measure and improve adherence to assessment and management guidelines for giant cell arteritis.
Retrospective data collection from patients assessed for GCA at North Middlesex Hospital over 12 months.
Implemented interventions including a trust guideline pathway, local teaching, and streamlined ultrasound orders.
Employed statistical methods such as logistic regression and chi-squared testing for analysis.
Increased steroid treatment from 34% to 54% in the second cohort.
Enhanced rheumatology referrals from 55% to 77% after interventions.
Ultrasound assessments improved significantly from 15% to 77%.