Operational audit--the respiratory department.

: Although our operational audit involved evaluating the cost effectiveness and efficiency with which procedures or functions are performed, our focus remained on the actual operational problem as defined in our criteria. The pre-determined standards, on which our criteria statements were based, provided the yardstick for measurement. Our assessment and Treatment Plan for patient care was audited, followed by a review of our policy and procedure compliance and the application of managerial systems and controls. Although the total impact of this audit tool on astute clinical care, management, judgement, and educational needs is yet to be addressed, we believe we have taken an important step in the direction of quality control through the initiation of an evaluation system in the Respiratory Department.