The use of a decision analysis model in multidisciplinary decision making

This paper describes a conceptual decision analysis model for use in multidisciplinary decision making. Decision analysis was used to structure a decision process that ensured the best choice through consensus building among hospital decision makers. The four basic steps of the decision analysis model included: (1) identifying and establishing boundaries of the decision problem; (2) structuring the decision problem; (3) characterizing information needed to fill in the structure; and (4) choosing a preferred course of action. The selection of the best intermittent intravenous drug delivery system for Presbyterian Hospital illustrates the application of the conceptual model. This type of decision analysis model becomes a useful consensus building and communication device for the administrative pharmacist who is involved in multidisciplinary decision-making processes.