Question

As a program evaluator, what are some of the major considerations that must be taken into account when formulating evaluation questions?

Answer 1

A program is evaluated by comparing the outcomes with certain standards.The outcomes are the desired effect of structure and process.There must be continued analysis of the structure and process.The outcomes are measured in terms of improved health status, perceived quality of life, client satisfaction. If the outcomes are good,it indicates that the program is giving quality care.However, the accuracy of choosing outcomes as a measurement for evaluation of program is limited, because in some cases,even with good quality care,the outcomes will not be satisfactory. In such cases other factors should be considered while evaluation. These are non compliance of the client to medications,inability of the client to respond to medications and nursing care due to immunosuppression,progress of a terminal illness beyond the capabilities of medications or nursing care etc.

Quantifying the outcome variables is possible by using rates and ratios.Chart auditing is a means of measuring the frequency of outcome indicators .

Benchmarking can be used to excel in giving quality care.It is a process of studying another's program to improve one's own

Whenever the outcomes are not up to the mark,the structure and process should be examined again for any inadequacies. The structure should be client oriented,and should have adequate resources to provide current services and to introduce additional services if needed, and should be financially stable. The process should maintain the standards set by professional staff or accreditation bodies.The staff should be given in service training sessions regularly. There should be regular peer reviews and auditing.All these factors affect the program outcomes and should be kept in mind while evaluating a program.