WHAT DO PALLIATIVE STAFF THINK ABOUT AUDIT

Forty-one of 68 palliative care clinicians responded to an anonymous q uestionnaire assessing the attitudinal, training, management, and supp ort needs for introducing audit. Most respondents (88%) felt it was a good idea; reservations concerned the increase in work load. Although 66% of respondents had received audit training, only 39% were currentl y involved in audit. Respondents identified a need for more informatio n and feedback, experienced assistance, and support. These concerns ha ve to be addressed by health care managers if audit is to be successfu lly maintained. Current training sessions do not adequately meet staff needs; palliative care staff require an advanced audit training that includes staff motivation, analysis of results, and the provision of f eedback.