Accurately Identifying and Documenting Data Points in Hospital Events

It is the responsibility of the Trauma Registry Professional to be familiar with each hospital event to accurately identify and document the correct data points. Since hospital events can change from year to year, the Trauma Registry Professional must be adaptable to keep up with these changes. Everyone has their own learning style. Some people grasp the NTDS document by reading it directly, while others find it more helpful to use an algorithm. Some key points to be aware of include learning how to correctly read the NTDS and reviewing the 2024 Hospital Event Algorithm flow chart. This is available for download from AKI TEST (facs.org). For the 2025 NTDS, the algorithms are integrated into the documentation. When reviewing hospital events, extra effort is needed to identify specific conditions, such as Acute Kidney Injury. To comprehend what you’re examining, you might need to broaden your knowledge by learning about factors like what defines an eGFR. Acute Kidney Injury Example: Chronic Kidney Disease in Type 2 Diabetes | Kerendia® (finerenone) | Patient Site  (kerendia-us.com) Understanding the language and structure of NTDS Hospital Event documentation is crucial for accurate data interpretation and reporting. The presence of “and/or” statements requires careful attention to ensure that the data is categorized correctly. Additionally, the flow of data within the algorithm can vary, highlighting the importance of a thorough review of each document. Familiarity with these nuances is essential for maintaining the integrity of the data and supporting effective patient care outcomes. The American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program (ACS TQIP) plays a crucial role in enhancing patient care by collecting data on hospital events. This data is instrumental in identifying facilities with lower incidence rates, which can then serve as benchmarks for others. By analyzing and adopting the strategies of these leading facilities, hospitals can work towards reducing their own event rates, ultimately improving patient outcomes and elevating the standard of trauma care.