Q
quadriceps large four-part extensor muscle of the thigh, comprises the rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis and vastus intermedius.
quadriparesis weakness of all four limbs.
quadriplegia (tetraplegia) paralysis when all four limbs are affected.
qualitative relating to quality.
qualitative research research study based on observation and/or interviews to ascertain people’s opinions, feelings or beliefs. Non-statistical methods often used in analysis. See also quantitative research.
qualitative tests tests which measure ‘soft data’ – feelings, opinions etc.
quality adjusted life years (QALYs) measure of years of life gained through a health intervention adjusted for the quality of life. For example, if an intervention prolongs life by 5 years, but at only half the quality of normal life, this produces 2.5 QALYs.
quality assurance systematic monitoring and evaluation of agreed levels of service provision which are followed by modifications in the light of the evaluation and/or audit. A process to evaluate whether system or service is being provided to a consistent standard. See also benchmarking, clinical audit
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