Using the OAS-MNR as a Performance Indicator
In addition to individual clinical work and research, OAS-MNR data can also be used to construct a performance indicator that informs clinicians, managers, commissioners, service users and their families of the effectiveness of a service in managing aggression. An Aggregate Aggression Score (AAS) can be calculated using the frequency and weighted severity scores from the OAS-MNR for individual service users. These are then pooled and median AAS scores obtained at ward, unit or service level, as required.
Figure 2: Use of the OAS-MNR in calculating a performance indicator to determine service level efficacy in managing aggressive behaviour
Figure 2 shows an example of how the OAS-MNR can contribute to measuring service efficacy in this way. It displays the change in the AAS for each of three individual wards within NBIC. AAS scores for the last three months of admission were compared to those for the first three months and an improvement index calculated ranging from 0 (no change) to 100. It can clearly be seen that all three wards were running therapeutic programmes that were effective in reducing individual service users’ aggressive behaviour.