Comparability

From WikiHIT

It is the case that the clinical observation of “rash” will have different attributes than the clinical observation of “wheezing.” Each of these, therefore, will demand a different Clinical Data Definition. There may be other clinical observations that can take advantage of the same constellation of attributes as either “rash” or “wheezing.” In any event, when “rash” and/or “wheezing” is used as an allergic reaction or adverse reaction, it will be comparable to “rash” or “wheezing” as observations that are not necessarily allergic reactions or adverse events. The nice thing about this is that it allows for comparability of the clinical observations independent of the context.

Mrs. Smith shows up at the ER wheezing. A query on her information shows that she has had wheezing associated with intrinsic asthma but has also had wheezing associated with exposure to cleaning solvents. Even though she has not directly used a cleaning solvent, the knowledge of the previous association leads to questioning that, in turn, uncovers the fact that she just visited her daughter’s home after just after the carpets had been cleaned.