Advantages of fielded data for data analysis

This assignment requires the development of 4 sample studies with fielded and narrative data uses. The term “fielded data” means data that is stored in specified locations in a database table and usually according to specified formats, such as using only M/F/N to designate a patient’s biological sex. Example below.

Fielded data is also referred to as structured data. Another example is a yes/no question that is answered using a drop-down choice, the question ‘Are you a diabetic?’ which only has yes or no as possible answers could be captured using a fielded data format. This data can be placed into a specific field in the database to be retrieved later. Data that is not fielded are considered free-form, such as narrative paragraphs and unstructured statements in text. A fine example is the ‘chief complaint’ offered by a patient:

Consider and compare the advantages of using the fielded/structured data approach when searching an EHR system for patients who may need care reminders or quality reviews for care appropriateness. You may find it useful to consult literature or websites to help you develop examples of studies and then review sample studies to identify data that was likely ‘fielded/structured’ verses data that was likely free narrative text. However, all such references need to be fully identified, and the paper needs to be written in your own words, and it should not be quoted items from resources. Here is a sample study below that demonstrates the usefulness of both fielded and narrative data. (PLEASE do not use this example in your assignment submission as it will not generate any credit or points for you!) 

For this assignment submission, develop and explain:

1. Three (3) examples of studies or information requests that you think may be most quickly or accurately done using structured/fielded data. For each example:
   1. Explain the goal of your created study.
   2. Identify fielded data that is relevant to each study. Describe it and identify the values of the field.
   3. Indicate purpose of the fielded data to the study. What will it result in?
2. One (1) study or information request that could require using narrative text such as physician’s or nurses’ notes in records. 
   1. Explain the goal of your created study.
   2. Identify narrative data that is relevant to the study.
   3. Indicate purpose of the narrative data in the study.

The grading rubric is shown below. This assignment might be best created in a table format and should have adequate content to effectively communicate your study purpose and demonstrate comprehension of both fielded and text data fields. Please use proper spelling/grammar and be at least two (2) pages long.

Criteria 

Study One fielded data – includes goal, relevant fielded data and purpose

Study two fielded data – includes goal, relevant fielded data and purpose

Study three fielded data – includes goal, relevant fielded data and purpose

Study four Narrative data – includes goal, relevant narrative data and purpose