Table 5.
Pros and cons of template-based documentation in paper.
| Templates in general | Rubber stamp templates specifically |
|---|---|
| Pros | |
| Rapid documentation | Can print relevant templates on demand |
| Allows incorporation of checklists | Easily adapted to suit each context/facility |
| Standardized care documentation | Cheap, local production (no printing needed) |
| Potential improvements in quality of care | Minimal wastage compared to printed sheets |
| Does not compromise narrative documentation | Minimal training needed to use stamps |
| Minimal training needed to use templates | Designed for automated data digitization |
| Can be modified to suit different needs, and support iterative QI | Logistically simple to manage (Multiple stamps can be placed in a desk/drawer) |
| Cons | |
| Only support discrete data | Limited size (typical ink pads are ~10 × 7 cm |
| Manual data extraction is cumbersome | Ink transfer can vary in quality |
| Multiple templates needed for outpatient care | Mobile phone images can vary in quality |