The SSNAP Therapy Intensity Calculator is a practical tool designed to help users compile therapy intensity data efficiently. This data can then be entered into the SSNAP webtool with greater ease and accuracy. By mimicking the questions found in the webtool, this calculator streamlines data collection while providing an organized way to track therapy sessions.
This tool is designed for use by both inpatient and community teams, ensuring it meets the needs of all service providers. Additionally, the calculator will be regularly updated to incorporate user feedback and align with any changes to SSNAP requirements.
However, it’s important to note that while the calculator is useful, it does not fully replicate the SSNAP webtool's sophisticated validation features. Ensure all data is entered with precision to avoid errors during webtool submission.
How to Use the Therapy Intensity Calculator
Follow these steps to maximize the benefits of the tool:
1. Start with Patient Identification
Begin by entering the patient’s basic details:
- Surname
- Date of Birth (DOB)
- ID Number
The ID number must match a record already started on the SSNAP webtool, as it is required for linking the data.
2. Record Key Dates and Eligibility
Input the first assessment date and specify whether the patient was eligible for various types of therapy or care at any point. You’ll also need to enter the discharge date from your service.
- Note: These key dates only need to be entered once for each patient. The tool conveniently grays out other cells to avoid unnecessary duplication.
3. Log Therapy Intensity
Document the total number of minutes the patient received therapy each day:
- Leave cells blank if the patient did not receive therapy on a particular day (do not input "0").
- Break down therapy minutes by type:
- Therapy provided by assistants
- Teletherapy sessions
- Group therapy sessions
4. Add Notes for Context
Use the "Notes" section to input or review comments for each patient. This feature is especially helpful for recording additional contextual information for internal review.
5. Review the Summary Sheet
Before entering data into the SSNAP webtool, carefully review the Therapy Summary Sheet. While the calculator highlights validation errors for inconsistent data, a thorough manual check is strongly recommended to ensure accuracy.
6. Update Records Post-Submission
After successfully entering the data into the webtool, update the corresponding records on the Summary Sheet for accurate tracking.
Helpful Tips
- Use the example patient record provided in the tool as a guide for data entry.
- Double-check all entries to minimize validation issues during webtool submission.
- This tool supports both inpatient and community teams, ensuring flexibility for all service providers.
- If you encounter any challenges or have suggestions to improve the calculator, the SSNAP helpdesk is available for support at ssnap@kcl.ac.uk.
- You can also make your own additions and modifications such as adding more columns or updating the dates.
- We also suggest that you take a look at calculators designed by other users in our user resources area here.
We hope this calculator makes the data entry process smoother and supports your efforts in delivering quality patient care.