Study: ER computer keyboards and bacteria
A study conducted at Henry Ford Hospital found that keyboard contamination was predominantly in non-treatment areas, suggesting alternative keyboard designs may improve safety in these areas
Emergency Medicine
Articles tagged with Emergency Medicine
Canadian C-spine rule could help trauma patients, ease overcrowding in emergency departments
A study found that widespread use of the Canadian C-spine rule by triage nurses in emergency departments would alleviate discomfort among trauma patients and streamline patient flow. The rule helps clinicians make diagnostic or therapeutic decisions about cervical spine evaluation, reducing unnecessary immobilization time.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 10, 2010
Racial disparities evident in taking sexual histories in emergency departments
A new study reveals racial disparities in emergency department documentation of sexual histories for adolescent girls, with black teens more likely to have their history documented than white teens despite higher STI incidence rates. This finding highlights the need for standardized care and attention to racial disparities in healthcare.
Medical home pays off, improving primary care and cutting cost at 2 years
The medical home prototype improved quality of care, patient experiences, and clinician well-being, with significant cost savings through reduced emergency visits and hospitalizations. The study's findings support the model's ability to address healthcare concerns and provide recommendations for implementation.
Alternative strategies to reduce maternal mortality in India
A study by Sue J. Goldie and colleagues finds that better family planning, safe abortion, and improved obstetrical care can reduce maternal mortality in India by 75% in under a decade. Integrated approaches can prevent more than 3 out of 4 maternal deaths.
Day care dilemma: When 'sick' children are unnecessarily sent home
A new study found that child care directors in metropolitan Milwaukee would unnecessarily exclude 57% of children with mild illnesses from care. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Public Health Association have established guidelines to address this issue, but their implementation remains inconsistent.
Many patients don't know they had minor stroke, need emergency care
A British study found that nearly two-thirds of patients were unaware they had a minor stroke and over one-third delayed seeking medical attention for more than 24 hours. The study suggests a lack of public awareness about recognizing the signs of a minor stroke, with people from all demographics showing similar lack of knowledge.
Patients without health insurance more likely to delay seeking care for heart attack
A study published in JAMA found that patients without health insurance are more likely to delay seeking emergency care for a heart attack. Those with financial concerns about accessing care also tend to delay treatment.
Study: People with no health insurance get substandard migraine care
A study found that people with no health insurance are twice as likely to receive inadequate treatment for migraines compared to those with private insurance. Migraine patients on Medicaid are 1.5 times more likely to receive substandard care.
Many sickle cell disease patients need frequent hospitalization or emergency care for pain
A new study published in JAMA found that four out of ten people treated for sickle cell disease are readmitted within 30 days, highlighting the need for improved care. The study also revealed higher rates of rehospitalization and emergency department visits among younger patients with Medicaid or public insurance.
Regenstrief Institute to help improve disability determination through health information technology
The Regenstrief Institute is leveraging its Indiana Network for Patient Care to automate the disability case determinations process, reducing time and increasing completeness of medical data. This will facilitate faster decision-making and decrease the burden on healthcare providers.
Dying cancer patient visits to emergency departments can be avoided
A study found that nearly half of dying cancer patients visit the emergency department in the last two weeks of life, often due to uncontrolled symptoms. Effective palliative care can help manage these symptoms and reduce visits to the emergency department.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 15, 2010
Drama or reality TV: Do medical shows depict proper first aid for seizures?
A study found that medical dramas and reality TV shows responded inappropriately to seizures nearly half the time, with improper practices occurring in 25 cases. The American Academy of Neurology urges the TV industry to adhere to seizure management guidelines.
Trauma patients safe from mortality risks associated with so-called 'weekend effect'
Researchers found no increased mortality risk among trauma patients presenting on nights and weekends, unlike other critically ill patients. Trauma centers' 24/7 staffing ensures consistent care regardless of time of presentation.
Guided Care participants rate quality of health care high
Chronic illness patients supported by nurse-physician teams rate primary care as significantly higher than usual care recipients. Guided Care improves coordination with specialists, self-management support, and goal-setting assistance.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 19, 2010
Children who lack continuity with a regular health care provider miss needed services
A new study published in Pediatrics reveals that low-income children who lack continuity with a regular health care provider are significantly more likely to have unmet health care needs. The study found that 79% of children without a usual source of care had an unmet need compared to 45% who reported having a usual source of care.
Fewer emergency patients seen within recommended time frame
Between 1997 and 2006, median wait times increased by 36%, with emergent patients waiting 87% longer to be seen. The percentage of patients seen within the triage target time declined an average of 0.8% per year, particularly for emergent patients.
New statement outlines ATS positions on research, education, advocacy
The American Thoracic Society has issued a statement outlining its positions on research, training, education, patient care, and advocacy. The ATS aims to prioritize altruistic concerns for patients, improve outcome measurement, and advocate for universal access to quality care.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 6, 2009
Significant regional variations exist regarding proximity to burn centers
A study found significant regional variations in geographic access to verified burn centers, with the northeast region having the highest and southern states having the lowest access rates. The researchers suggest optimizing air and ground emergency medical service systems for states with low baseline access rates.
Calling it in: New emergency medical service system may predict caller's fate
Researchers in Japan developed a computer program that accurately predicts patients' risk of dying at the time of an emergency call. The algorithm achieved over 80% sensitivity and has potential to prioritize ambulances for critical cases.
Health information exchange conquers new frontier: Emergency medical services
Emergency medical services providers can now securely access patients' pre-existing health information, enabling informed treatment decisions and efficient care delivery. The Indiana Network for Patient Care (INPC) link allows paramedics and EMTs to access patient records in real-time, improving care quality and safety.
Implementation of acute care surgery service provides more timely patient care
A new study published in the Journal of American College of Surgeons found that establishing an acute care surgery service can provide more efficient emergency care. The service, staffed by critical care surgeons and surgical residents, reduced wait times for urgent procedures from 55.4% to 70% after implementation.
Cambodian refugee among 10 Americans chosen to receive national award
Sonith Peou, program director of the Metta Health Center in Lowell, Mass., is one of 10 Americans chosen to receive the RWJF Community Health Leaders Award for his work on culturally competent health care services. He has helped thousands of Cambodians, Laotians, and Vietnamese access quality healthcare.
The high cost of treating alcohol-impaired drivers
A new study from Rhode Island Hospital found that alcohol-impaired drivers, regardless of injury severity, incur higher medical costs in emergency departments. The study revealed a median charge difference of $4,538 and a longer length of stay, totaling 3.3 hours compared to non-alcohol impaired patients.
Battery ingestion not uncommon in children; caregivers and physicians need education
Button battery ingestions are common among young children, with 62% of cases involving kids under 5. While most recover without issues, some experience long-term complications like tracheostomy dependence and vocal paralysis. Education is key to preventing these incidents.
1 in 8 strokes is preceded by 'warning stroke'
Research found that 1 in 8 strokes is preceded by a 'warning stroke', also known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mild stroke. Those who experienced a warning stroke were more likely to be older and have underlying health conditions, but may have been protected from the full effects of the larger stroke.
Minimal training saves lives with airway mask
A study found that minimal training can significantly improve first responders' speed and effectiveness when inserting laryngeal masks during life-saving CPR or mouth-to-mouth. Regular refresher courses are recommended to maintain skills, as proficiency declines after six months of non-use.
Pediatrics: Kids need specialized care in hospital emergency departments
The lack of preparedness in pediatric emergency departments poses a significant risk, particularly during the onset of novel H1N1 flu. The guidelines recommend equipment, training, medications, and policies to ensure appropriate care for children.
Study of hospital relocation provides insights to aid in disaster planning
A study of hospital relocation provides insights into aid disaster planning by restricting elective surgeries and limiting incoming transfers. This approach helped one major hospital reduce its census by 36% without interrupting emergency or trauma services, a strategy that can be applied during disasters to improve surge capacity.
Majority of unintended incidents in the ER are caused by human error
A recent study published in BMC Emergency Medicine found that 60% of unintended incidents in the emergency department are caused by human failures. The majority of these events were attributed to departments outside the emergency department, such as laboratories.
Medical home gives patients better primary care at no more cost
A one-year evaluation demonstrates the benefits of the patient-centered medical home model, which provides personalized care, prevention, and coordination. The study found significantly fewer emergency room visits and hospitalizations among patients with access to a medical home.
Retail medical clinics can provide care at lower cost, similar quality as other settings
A RAND Corporation study found that retail medical clinics offer high-quality care at a lower cost than traditional settings, with costs 30-40% lower for acute illnesses. The study also showed that retail clinics provide care similar in quality to physician offices, urgent care centers, and hospital emergency departments.
Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine
Researchers found that a Mediterranean-style diet was more effective in managing type 2 diabetes than a low-fat diet, with patients on the Mediterranean diet requiring less medication and experiencing greater weight loss. Additionally, retail clinics were shown to provide quality care at lower costs compared to urgent care centers and ...
Alcohol abuse screening/brief interventions in community hospital emergency department
Researchers at Rhode Island Hospital successfully implemented an alcohol abuse screening and brief intervention model in a community hospital emergency department, achieving positive results. However, the program's sustainability was limited by the lack of additional staff trained to conduct screenings and interventions. The study high...
Interactive asthma education program reduces need for emergency care and steroid use in children
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that an interactive asthma education program reduced the need for emergency care and steroid use in children. The program, which included small-group interaction and personalized materials, improved asthma outcomes and caregiver burden.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 17, 2009
Statewide program to improve emergency care for children
A statewide program aims to enhance pediatric emergency medical care in Illinois by supporting facilities in managing critically ill and injured children. The program, led by Loyola University Health System, focuses on preparing emergency medicine facilities to provide quality care for this vulnerable patient population.
Aging with GRACE: New health care delivery model improves outcomes, saves money
A new healthcare delivery model called GRACE improves health and quality of life for low-income seniors, decreasing emergency department visits and hospital admissions. The program's personalized care approach reduces high-cost hospitalizations and saves money.
SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 11, 2009
Guided care reduces cost of health care for older persons with chronic conditions
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that guided care patients spent 24% fewer hospital days and 37% fewer skilled nursing facility days compared to usual care. Guided Care programs could save Medicare over $15 billion every year, according to the study.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateAug 7, 2009
Emergency physician judgment on chest pain patients syncs with their outcomes
A study led by Abhinav Chandra found that emergency physicians' estimates of risk for chest pain patients correlate with actual outcomes. The researchers suggest trusting the physician's gut instinct and counseling against discharge when strongly advised, even without compelling data.
Insurance, medical provider do not assure asthma control
Research at National Jewish Health found asthma control poor among 155 students with asthma, regardless of medical insurance or identified provider. Patients and parents must recognize when management is not optimal to seek help and improve asthma control.
Civilian doctors, not just those in combat settings, urgently need training on blast injuries
Blast injuries are physically and psychologically devastating, with conservative estimates showing a four-fold increase in events and an eight-fold increase in injuries. The authors emphasize the need for every physician involved in emergency care to understand blast injury patterns and management, highlighting the importance of carefu...
Ketamine safe and valuable alternative sedative for inserting tubing for emergency airway control in critically ill patients
A randomised controlled trial shows ketamine is a safe alternative to etomidate for intubating critically ill patients, reducing adrenal insufficiency risk. The study's results suggest pharmacological knowledge may be crucial for successful emergency intubation.
UCSF commentators call for health reform to revitalize primary care
Researchers at UCSF advocate for a nationwide Primary Care Cooperative Extension Service to support primary care clinicians and address the shortage of physicians. The service would provide infrastructure for practice transformation through local learning communities, information exchange, and cross-fertilization of ideas among practices.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 24, 2009
Group Health Cooperative shows investing in more primary care pays for itself
Group Health Cooperative's Patient-Centered Medical Home pilot showed significant success, reducing emergency room visits by 29% and inpatient hospital stays for patients with chronic conditions. The model also improved care team satisfaction and patient experience, leading to long-term cost savings.
Crowded emergency departments pose greater risks for patients with heart attacks
A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that patients with heart attacks and chest pain are three to five times more likely to experience serious complications when treated in a crowded ER. The authors attribute the increased risk to poorer care coordination, delays in testing, and overburdened doctors and nurses.
Retail clinics less likely to be located in underserved communities
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that retail clinics tend to be located in areas with higher median incomes and home ownership rates. In contrast, counties without these clinics have higher uninsured rates and lower socioeconomic status.
Regenstrief Institute is 'pace car' for coordination of medical care at Indy 500
The Regenstrief Institute has developed the Indiana Network for Patient Care (INPC), allowing emergency department providers across the state to access patients' medical histories. This technology will provide critical information for best course treatment and help strategize for future events.
2 studies examine medical consequences of police use of force during restraint
Two studies found that injuries inflicted by police officers are relatively rare, with less than one percent requiring hospital admission for related incidents. However, high rates of drug and alcohol use, psychiatric history, and deaths due to firearms were observed among those being restrained.
Study tests the effect of ending ambulance diversion
A study found that eliminating ambulance diversion did not cause significant problems, but rather decreased wait times for admitted patients. The state of Massachusetts has since ended the practice statewide due to the study's results.
Automobile restraints do not increase chance of fetal complications following accidents
A study of over two million injured patients found pregnant women with seat belts had significantly fewer pregnancy-related complications than those without. Women wearing both a seat belt and air bag had the lowest rate of complications.
Study compares formulations of 3 aspirin types
A new study comparing three different types of aspirin has found that chewable aspirin consistently shows greater and more rapid absorption, potentially leading to improvements in heart attack care. Researchers measured blood levels of aspirin after administering regular and chewed aspirin to volunteers.
Urgent care centers: Between the ER and the family doctor
Urgent care centers (UCCs) tend to be open outside of office hours and offer a wider range of services than primary care offices. They have significantly expanded hours of operation and provide services like fracture care, suturing lacerations, and x-rays, more commonly associated with emergency departments.
Simulation training improves skills for catheter insertion
A new technology allows student doctors to practice operations on simulators before trying them out on real patients. Researchers found that simulation training improved success rates for inserting central lines into major veins.
Program reduces hospital and emergency department use among homeless adults with chronic illnesses
A study found that providing housing and case management to homeless adults with chronic medical illnesses significantly reduces hospitalizations and emergency department visits. The intervention resulted in a 29% reduction in hospitalizations, 24% in hospital days, and 29% in emergency department visits compared to usual care.
Poor sleep quality leads to poorer prognosis after stroke
A study by Latha Stead found that patients with diagnosed or undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea had a higher risk of death and poor outcomes after a stroke. The research suggests that regular screening for sleep apnea in emergency department settings could improve patient outcomes.
New doctors, teaching physicians disagree about essential medical procedures to learn
A survey of new doctors and teaching physicians found significant disagreement on essential medical procedures to learn, with new doctors prioritizing more invasive procedures. The results have led to a revised curriculum at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, enhancing student training and potentially improving patient care.
Cardiac CT offers a better, cost-effective approach to diagnose low-risk chest pain patients
A study at the University of Washington found that cardiac CT is a cost-effective approach to diagnose low-risk chest pain patients, reducing costs by 44% and shortening hospital stays by up to 20 hours. The new technique uses lower-dose cardiac CT options, allowing for faster evaluation and discharge in under six hours.
Abnormal EKG can predict death in stroke patients
A study published in the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases found that ischemic stroke patients with abnormal heart electrical cycles are at higher risk of death within 90 days. Prolonged QTc intervals, especially above 440ms for women, are associated with the worst prognosis.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateMar 20, 2009
1 in 4 Americans lacks timely access to optimal care during time-sensitive medical emergencies
A new study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine finds that many Americans face challenges accessing specialized medical care during time-sensitive emergencies. Hospitals in rural areas often lack resources, including staff and equipment, to provide adequate care.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateMar 17, 2009
Racial disparities in emergency department length of stay point to added risks for minority patients
A new study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that African-American patients wait about an hour longer for hospital beds than patients of other races. The findings suggest that disparities in emergency department length of stay may explain some of the poorer health outcomes seen in black populations.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateMar 5, 2009