PP095. Guideline-based development of quality indicators for hypertensive diseases in pregnancy

Introduction Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy are one of the main causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. Internationally, several organizations have developed clinical guidelines to assist professionals and to supply patients with the best possible care. To improve the care for this group of patients, insight into the application of clinical guidelines in daily practice is needed. Valid quality indicators are necessary to estimate actual guideline adherence. In this study, we developed a set of valid guidelines based quality indicators for hypertensive diseases in pregnancy. Objectives None. Methods A systematic RAND-modified Delphi method was used to develop a set of quality indicators based on evidence-based guidelines and the literature, about hypertension and pregnancy. Experts’ opinions were used to select the indicators regarding specific criteria such as efficacy, level of health gain and potential for care improvement. Results A representative set of 14 quality indicators was selected from 48 initial guideline recommendations. Indicators concerned both professional performance and organisation of care for patients with hypertension in pregnancy. Conclusion This study describes the systematic, stepwise method used to develop quality indicators that can be used to monitor care for hypertensive diseases in pregnancy.