Frequently asked questions (FAQ):
Is the Data Correct?
Yes. It is based on the raw, unadjusted audit data, extracted directly from the audit database. Records with errors and duplicates are excluded, where possible. If there are some errors in the original data entered into the audit, then these errors could be visible in the charts.
Who can see my charts?
The charts are available to the general public via an open internet connection.
How often are the charts updated:
Every hour, using the latest valid data you have provided.
Can I use the charts for my presentation?
We encourage the use of FLSDB charts to support clinical governance activity and quality improvement. Each exported chart contains a copyright statement which should not be removed or altered. The charts are available for personal and/or private use and review and should not published in any form with explicit permission of the FFFAP/FLS project team at the Royal College of Physicians.
Can I use the charts for my conference poster or journal publication?
To discuss use of charts for academic outputs or other purposes, please contact the team at: FLS@rcplondon.ac.uk
Which data is included?
It depends upon the chart. We include all valid complete records where possible. Check the 'About this chart' link on the menu.
Which data is excluded?
It depends upon the chart. We exclude records which are duplicate records, records with errors such as invalid admission or discharge dates, unacknowledged errors, such us unlikely combinations of fracture type and operation performed. Check the 'Chart details' link under each chart.
The charts look very different for every hospital?
Each FLS unit may have different policies, practices or use different processes and enter their data at different rates. The FLSDB receives the data when the FLS enters it and has no control over what data is made available or when. Also,
be sure to check the chart ranges
as different scales could apply when comparing FLSs. Please note that some charts use axis scales on the right-hand-side to show patient numbers separately.
How are duplicate records handled?
If a patient care spell is documented in more than one record we count this any extra records as duplicates and exclude these duplicate records where possible from the charts and reports. We cannot always tell which record has accurate data - only the FLS that treated the patient can decide. On this basis, we include the first record we find and exclude any additional records. Each hospital is encouraged to remove duplicate records and to make sure the remaining record is correct.
The charts seem wrong for the last month?
It depends upon the chart. FLSs cannot always enter data promptly and this delay can affect the charts. Other charts may appear wrong because the data has not been fully entered yet or is not yet complete or the number of patients for the month is low overall.
The charts don't work in my browser?
Older browsers or some tablets (like Apple iPads) may not be able to support every feature of the chart. We recommend you upgrade your browsers and use the latest browser versions where possible.
Who can I contact to discuss the charts?
Please send any queries to the FLSDB enquiries team in the first instance at: FLSDB@rcplondon.ac.uk