Improving descriptive terminology using a descriptive algorithm as an educational intervention to improve referral accuracy.

The accuracy of clinical communication in referrals to dermatology has not been fully explored. Baseline analysis of inpatient ward referral to a dermatology service revealed that only 37% of referrals used accurate descriptive terminology. Theme analysis of individual descriptive terms used was performed to assess knowledge deficits and develop a novel intervention to improve descriptive accuracy. A descriptive algorithm was developed to act as a scaffolding resource for the use of descriptive terms. The Belfast Dermatology Descriptive Algorithm was developed as a tool to determine primary and secondary morphological features of eruptions, and to highlight common clinical pitfalls. It was designed to adhere to principles of adult learning. Assessment was completed following the introduction of the algorithm. The accuracy of descriptions used was increased to 70% with the introduction of the resource. This outcome reflects how educational interventions, in the format of an accessible resource tool, can be used as a unique intervention to improve education in clinical practice.