Avedis Donabedian's framework for assessing healthcare quality classifies evaluation into structure, process, and outcome. In a hospital quality audit, 'nurse-to-patient ratio in the intensive care unit' is an example of which component?
- A Process
- B Structure ✓
- C Outcome
- D Impact
Correct answer: B. Structure
Explanation
Donabedian's framework defines structure as the attributes of the setting where care occurs, including human resources, physical facilities, and organizational characteristics. Nurse-to-patient ratio is a structural measure reflecting staffing adequacy. Process refers to the actual delivery of care activities, and outcome refers to changes in patient health status. Impact is a broader term from the RE-AIM framework, not Donabedian's triad.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.