The information needs of family physicians: case-specific clinical questions.

摘要: BACKGROUND Physicians must be able to rapidly obtain information that answers specific patient-related clinical questions. This study describes the information-seeking process in office practices of family physicians. METHODS We observed and recorded information-obtaining behavior 30 physicians their offices. RESULTS Based on 172 hours observation 602 patient visits, sought an average only one question for every 15 patients seen. Urban more questions than rural (one 9 patients, as compared with 24 patients; P less .05). The frequency seeking was not related physician's age. Busier (those seeing per hour) tended ask fewer (correlation coefficient (r) = -.34, .06). Drug-prescribing were most common type; second orthopedic Colleagues Physicians' Desk Reference often used resources. Eight percent answered. CONCLUSIONS Among physicians, are infrequently asked highly specific. Most answered using colleagues books, journals or computers.