The ‘simple’ colour card tool that could help diagnose conditions faster
New online tool could improve patient care for many medical conditions
- Researchers at Edinburgh Napier University have developed a new online tool, “What Colour Is It?” to standardise the description of bodily fluid colours.
- The tool offers 13 or 15 clinically relevant shades for sputum, urine and faeces, each with a unique hex code for consistent documentation in patient notes.
- It aims to reduce subjectivity in colour descriptions, leading to faster and more accurate diagnoses, ultimately improving patient outcomes and safety.
- The resource also helps overcome communication barriers for patients, including those with language difficulties, young children, or conditions like aphasia, and aids remote consultations.
- Launched four weeks ago, the tool is already being utilised by around 225 healthcare professionals across various countries and medical specialisms, with aspirations for widespread adoption.