Table 1 Definition, data sources and method of collection of surveillance functions and attributes
Attribute/function | Definition | Data source(s) | Method of data collection |
|---|---|---|---|
Simplicity | Structure and ease of operation | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Flexibility | Ability to adapt to changing operating conditions with little additional cost in time, personnel or funds | Registers | Observation |
Data quality | A measure of how well suited a dataset serves its intended purpose | Registers | Observation |
Acceptability | Willingness of individuals and organisations to participate in the surveillance system | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Sensitivity | Case reporting—the proportion of cases of a disease detected by the surveillance system | Registers and health facility staff | Observation and interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Predictive value positive | The proportion of persons identified as cases who actually do have the condition under surveillance | Registers | Counts |
Representative | Comparison of characteristics of reported events to actual events | Health facility staff | Observation |
Timeliness | Speed or delay between steps in a surveillance system | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Stability | Ability of a surveillance system to collect, manage and provide data without failure | Registers | Observation |
Detection | Process of identifying presence of a disease or an event | Registers and health facility staff | Observation and interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Recording | Documenting information for future reference | Registers and health facility staff | Observation and interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Reporting | Written account of an event which has been observed or investigated | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Availability of guidelines and tools | Process of assigning meaning to the collected information and determining the conclusions, significance and implications of the findings | Health facility | Observation |
Training on IDSR | Laboratory diagnosis based on cases definition and set criteria in the national guidelines | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Data analysis | A set of measures undertaken by an organization to better respond and cope with the aftermath of an outbreak or event of importance | Health facility | Observation and interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Confirmation of outbreaks | Measures which attempt to minimize the spread of or effects of a disease outbreak or an event | Registers and health facility staff | Observation and interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Preparedness | Information sent back to a health worker or responder in regard to a report or message earlier submitted | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Response | Reassessing the surveillance functions and making recommendations for improving the quality and efficiency of the system | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire |
Feedback | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire | |
Evaluate and improve system | Health facility staff | Interview using semi-structured questionnaire |