Quality Dashboards in Hospital Settings: A Systematic Review With Implications for Nurses

Abstract

Background: Dashboards visually display quality and safety data to aid nurses in making informed decisions.

Purpose: This systematic review evaluated quality improvement (QI) dashboard characteristics associated with interventions to improve patient outcomes and positive end-user evaluation.

Methods: Literature was searched from 2012 to 2022 in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar.

Results: Sixteen articles were included. Varied dashboard characteristics were noted, with mixed patient outcomes and end-user responses. Graphs and tabular presentations were associated with improved patient outcomes, whereas graphs were associated with end-user satisfaction. Benchmarks were noted with improved patient outcomes but not end-user satisfaction. Interactive dashboards were important for end users and improved patient outcomes.

Conclusion: Nurses can find dashboards helpful in guiding QI projects. Dashboards may include graphs and/or tables, benchmarks, and interactivity but should be useful, usable, and aligned to unit needs. Future research should focus on the use of quality dashboards in nursing practice.