bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethics in the trenches: Part 2. Case studies of ethical challenges in emergency medicine
Authors: Pauls Merril , McRae Andrew , Campbell Sam G. , Dungey Paul
Published: July 2016

Unique ethical issues arise in the practice of emergency medicine, and common ethical problems are often more difficult to address in the emergency department than in other medical settings. This article is Part 2 of the Series “Ethics in the Trenches” and it presents and analyses 2 cases — each dealing with an ethical challenge that emergency physicians are likely to encounter. The first case deals with patient refusal of care. When a patient refuses recommended care, the emergency physician must ensure the patient’s decision is informed and that the patient comprehends the implications of his or her choice. The second case deals with patient involvement in criminal activities. Emergency physicians often encounter patients who have engaged in illegal activities. Although certain activities must be reported, physicians should be mindful of their responsibility to protect patient privacy and confidentiality.
The need for a national emergency health services database
Authors: Kennedy Sherry , Young Wendy , Schull Michael J. , Isaac Winston
Published: July 2016

Objective:

In February 2007, the Health Council of Canada, in its third annual report, emphasized the need for pan-Canadian data on our health care system. To date, no studies have examined the strengths and weaknesses of emergency health services (EHS) administrative databases, as perceived by researchers. We undertook a qualitative study to determine, from a researcher's perspective, the strengths and weaknesses of EHS administrative databases. The study also elicited researchers' suggestions to improve these databases.

Methods:

We conducted taped interviews with 4 Canadian health services researchers. The transcriptions were subsequently examined for common concepts, which were finalized after discussion with all the investigators.

Results:

Five common themes emerged from the interviews: clinical detail, data quality, data linkage, data use and population coverage. Data use and data linkages were considered strengths. Clinical detail, data quality and population coverage were considered weaknesses.

Conclusion:

The 5 themes that emerged from this study all serve to reinforce the call from the Health Council of Canada for national data on emergency services, which could be readily captured through a national EHS administrative database. We feel that key stakeholders involved in emergency services across Canada should work together to develop a strategy to implement an accurate, clinically detailed, integrated and comprehensive national EHS database.
Daily encounter cards facilitate competency-based feedback while leniency bias persists
Authors: Bandiera Glen , Lendrum David
Published: July 2016

Objective:

We sought to determine if a novel competency-based daily encounter card (DEC) that was designed to minimize leniency bias and maximize independent competency assessments could address the limitations of existing feedback mechanisms when applied to an emergency medicine rotation.

Methods:

Learners in 2 tertiary academic emergency departments (EDs) presented a DEC to their teachers after each shift. DECs included dichotomous categorical rating scales (i.e., “needs attention” or “area of strength”) for each of the 7 CanMEDS roles or competencies and an overall global rating scale. Teachers were instructed to choose which of the 7 competencies they wished to evaluate on each shift. Results were analyzed using both staff and resident as the units of analysis.

Results:

Fifty-four learners submitted a total of 801 DECs that were then completed by 43 different teachers over 28 months. Teachers' patterns of selecting CanMEDS competencies to assess did not differ between the 2 sites. Teachers selected an average of 3 roles per DEC (range 0–7). Only 1.3% were rated as “needs further attention.” The frequency with which each competency was selected ranged from 25% (Health Advocate) to 85% (Medical Expert).

Conclusion:

Teachers chose to direct feedback toward a breadth of competencies. They provided feedback on all 7 CanMEDS roles in the ED, yet demonstrated a marked leniency bias.
The utility of multiple imaging modalities to diagnose acute aortic dissection
Authors: Hurley Katrina F. , Ducharme James
Published: July 2016

A 21-year-old man with Marfan syndrome and known aortic root aneurysm presented to our emergency department with symptoms suggestive of acute aortic dissection. The patient was hemodynamically stable and bilateral upper extremity blood pressures were similar. There was no mediastinal widening on portable chest radiograph. Both contrast CT and retrograde angiography of the aorta failed to identify dissection. Subsequent transesophageal echocardiography demonstrated a Stanford classification type A dissection. This case demonstrates the utility of multiple imaging modalities for identifying aortic dissection in high-risk patients.
Ramsay Hunt syndrome presenting as simple otitis externa
Authors: Kim Daniel , Bhimani Munsif
Published: July 2016

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a rare complication of herpes zoster in which reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus infection occurs in the geniculate ganglion, causing otalgia, auricular vesicles and peripheral facial paralysis. Because these symptoms do not always present at the onset, this syndrome can be misdiagnosed. We report the case of a patient who was diagnosed with simple otitis externa after presenting to the emergency department (ED) with a 3-day history of right-sided otalgia. Her condition subsequently evolved to include right-sided auricular vesicles and right-sided facial weakness. She presented to the ED again after 2 days and was correctly diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome. We describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings and management of this uncommon but important entity.
Caring for victims of intimate partner violence: a survey of Canadian emergency departments
Authors: McClennan Sarah , Worster Andrew , MacMillan Harriet
Published: July 2016

Objective:

We sought to determine the proportion of Canadian emergency departments (EDs) that have intimate partner violence (IPV) universal screening programs and intervention policies and procedures. Of the EDs with programs, we determined what proportion had made changes in their practices during the past 10 years and since the 2003 Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommendations.

Methods:

Using the same sampling methods as a 1994 study, we mailed questionnaires to nurse managers of a stratified, random sample of 250 out of 638 (39%) Canadian EDs and followed up with a series of telephone calls.

Results:

Of the 250 EDs initially contacted, 6 were excluded before the surveys were mailed. The response rate was 78.3% (191/244). Sixty-one (31.9%) of the studied EDs reported the existence of IPV policies and procedures. In this group, 26 (42.6%) applied universal screening and 13 (21.3%) implemented their screening policies after the 2003 national recommendations were published. When these results were compared with those of the 1994 study, there was no difference in the proportion of EDs with IPV policies and procedures or in the proportion of EDs that applied universal screening.

Conclusion:

Despite increased research into IPV there was no significant change between 1994 and 2004 in the existence of IPV polices or universal screening in Canadian EDs. Policies and procedures that address appropriate responses to patients exposed to IPV should be a priority, with most emphasis directed toward developing effective interventions to which women can be referred.
Does a waiting room video about what to expect during an emergency department visit improve patient satisfaction?
Authors: Papa Linda , Seaberg David C. , Rees Elizabeth , Ferguson Kevin , Stair Richard , Goldfeder Bruce , Meurer David
Published: July 2016

Objective:

We created an instructional waiting room video that explained what patients should expect during their emergency department (ED) visit and sought to determine whether preparing patients using this video would 1) improve satisfaction, 2) decrease perceived waiting room times and 3) increase calls to an outpatient referral line in an ambulatory population.

Methods:

This serial cross-sectional study took place over a period of 2 months before (control) and 2 months after the introduction of an educational waiting room video that described a typical patient visit to our ED. We enrolled a convenience sample of adult patients or parents of pediatric patients who were triaged to the ED waiting room; a research assistant distributed and collected the surveys as patients were being discharged after treatment. Subjects were excluded if they were admitted. The primary outcome was overall satisfaction measured on a 5-point Likert scale, and secondary outcomes included perceived waiting room time, and the number of outpatient referral-line calls.

Results:

There were 1132 subjects surveyed: 551 prevideo and 581 postvideo. The mean age was 38 years (standard deviation [SD] 18), 61% were female and the mean ED length of stay was 5.9 hours (SD 3.6). Satisfaction scores were significantly higher postvideo, with 65% of participants ranking their visit as either “excellent” or “very good,” compared with 58.1% in the prevideo group (p = 0.019); however, perceived waiting room time was not significantly different between the groups (p = 0.24). Patient calls to our specialty outpatient clinic referral line increased from 1.5 per month (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58–2.42) to 4.5 per month (95% CI 1.19–7.18) (p = 0.032). After adjusting for possible covariates, the most significant determinants of overall satisfaction were perceived waiting room time (odds ratio [OR] 0.41, 95% CI 0.34–0.48) and having seen the ED waiting room video (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.06–1.86).

Conclusion:

Preparing patients for their ED experience by describing the ED process of care through a waiting room video can improve ED patient satisfaction and the knowledge of outpatient clinic resources in an ambulatory population. Future studies should research the implementation of this educational intervention in a randomized fashion.
Reaction in Ontario to Bill 110: Canada’s first mandatory gunshot wound reporting law
Authors: Ovens Howard , Park Hannah , Borgundvaag Bjug
Published: July 2016

Objective:

With the proclamation of Bill 110 in September 2005, Ontario became the first jurisdiction in Canada to mandate that gunshot wounds (GSWs) be reported to authorities. We sought to evaluate the impact of Bill 110, including the awareness of, experience with and opinions about the new law among Ontario emergency physicians (EPs), the public and the police.

Methods:

An online survey was distributed to all members of the Section on Emergency Medicine at the Ontario Medical Association. The public survey consisted of 3 closed questions and was performed by the polling firm Ipsos-Reid by telephone. Police opinion was requested through the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services of the Ontario government.

Results:

The physician response rate was 25%. The great majority of respondents were aware of the law (93%) and willing to comply (88%), but only half were sure of their obligations and the penalties. Since the law had been proclaimed, the majority (51%) had seen at least 1 GSW victim. Seventy-nine percent reported no problems with either the police or the bill, and 86% perceived no change in relations with patients. Six incidents of patients delaying care were reported. Of the public surveyed, two-thirds were aware of the law. After being informed of the law, almost all (95%) expressed support, and the majority (80%) felt it would not change their relationship with their treating physician. All 47 members of the Ontario Provincial Police who were surveyed agreed that Bill 110 is helpful for shooting investigations, 8 reported that they had personally been involved in cases initiated by a report and 6 had been involved in cases where charges were laid or weapons confiscated. Data on actual reports and results of investigations were not available.

Conclusion:

Bill 110 seems to have been broadly accepted by the emergency community and endorsed by the public.
Ophthalmic injuries from a TASER
Authors: Han Jay S. , Chopra Anil , Carr David
Published: July 2016

The TASER (TASER International) is an energy-conducting weapon, that is becoming more frequently used by law enforcement officials to subdue combative individuals. Though generally regarded as a safe alternative, the use of such weapons has been reported to cause serious injuries. We describe a case in which ocular injuries were sustained by impalement with a TASER dart. Emergency physicians should be aware of the potential for serious ophthalmic injuries from TASERs and how such injuries should be managed.
Adherence to emergency department discharge prescriptions
Authors: Hohl Corinne M. , Abu-Laban Riyad B. , Brubacher Jeffrey R. , Zed Peter J. , Sobolev Boris , Tsai Gina , Kretz Patricia , Nemethy Kevin , Bijlsma Jan Jaap , Purssell Roy A.
Published: July 2016

Objective:

Nonadherence to prescribed medication is associated with increased morbidity and mortality as well as the increased use of health services. The main objective of our study was to assess the incidence of prescription-filling and medication adherence in patients discharged from the emergency department (ED).

Methods:

This was a prospective, observational study carried out at a Canadian tertiary care ED with an annual census of 69 000. We enrolled a convenience sample of patients being discharged with a prescription. We queried a provincial prescription-dispensing database 2 weeks later to determine whether prescriptions had been filled. We used a standardized follow-up interview to assess adherence and whether or not the patient experienced an adverse drug-related event (ADRE) or an unplanned revisit to an ED or clinic.

Results:

Of the 301 patients who agreed to participate, follow-up was successful for 258 (85.7%). Fifty-one patients (19.8%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 15.4%–25.1%) failed to fill their discharge prescriptions and 104 (40.3%, 95% CI 34.5%–46.4%) did not adhere to 1 or more medications. Antibiotics were associated with a lower odds ratio (OR) of nonadherence (OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.08–0.52). There was a trend toward increasing nonadherence in patients who reported an ADRE (OR 1.84, 95% CI 0.98–3.48) or had 2 or more medications coprescribed (OR 1.71, 95% CI 0.95–3.09). There was also a trend toward a higher risk of a revisit to an ED or clinic in nonadherent patients (OR 1.75, 95% CI 0.94–3.25).

Conclusion:

Approximately 4 in 10 patients discharged from the ED did not adhere to his or her prescribed medication. Our results suggest that patients who are prescribed antibiotics are more likely to be adherent, and that further evaluation of the associations between nonadherence, ADREs, the coprescription of 2 or more medications and the use of health services is warranted.
Youth violence secondary prevention initiatives in emergency departments: a systematic review
Authors: Snider Carolyn , Lee Jacques
Published: July 2016

Objective:

Youth violence continues to trouble Canadians. Emergency department (ED) visits by youth after a violent injury may represent a “teachable moment,” and thus secondary violence prevention interventions may be effective. We conducted a systematic review to identify the success rates of any interventions, the populations likely to benefit and the outcome measures used.

Data source:

We searched 8 databases (i.e., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the ACP Journal Club, DARE and CENTRAL).

Study selection:

Studies were included if they described and evaluated an intervention, were health care–based and targeted youth who were injured by violence. Two blinded investigators selected 15 articles from 181 abstracts. After full-text review, 8 articles were excluded, leaving 7 articles from 4 intervention programs.

Data extraction:

All interventions used ED case management of the violently injured patient. One randomized control trial (RCT) demonstrated a significant reduction in reinjury rates (treatment group 8.1% v. control group 20.3%,p= 0.05). Another small RCT found no statistically significant reductions in repeat violence or service use. One retrospective cohort study demonstrated a lower relative risk (RR) in future criminal justice involvement (RR = 0.67, 95% confidence interval 0.45–0.99). A retrospective study of pediatric patients with violent injuries found only 1% of these youth returned with injuries as a result of repeat violence.

Data synthesis:

Although all 4 case management interventions that we reviewed showed promise in the United States, small sample sizes and incomplete follow-up limited their ability to demonstrate significant decreases in reinjury.

Conclusion:

Future research is necessary to help EDs capitalize on the opportunity to effectively reduce youth violence.
Myth: glucagon is an effective first-line therapy for esophageal foreign body impaction
Authors: Arora Sanjay , Galich Peter
Published: July 2016

Esophageal foreign body impactions (EFBIs) are relatively rare in emergency medicine; patients rarely have them more than once. Indications for watchful waiting include a patent airway and the ability to clear secretions. However, in many cases, significant discomfort combined with patient expectations mandate early intervention to dislodge the foreign body. Endoscopy is the preferred definitive method of intervention for EFBI; however, most emergency physicians choose to apply one of several less invasive modes of therapy as firstline treatment. Pharmacologic agents that have been described for this purpose include glucagon, nifedipine, sublingual nitroglycerin, proteolytic enzymes and benzodiazepines. Among these, glucagon has become the most widely accepted in clinical practice.
Self-reported priorities and resources of academic emergency physicians for the maintenance of clinical competence: a pilot study
Authors: Sherbino Jonathan , Upadhye Suneel , Worster Andrew
Published: July 2016

Objectives:

Medical licensing bodies and professional colleges require their members to maintain a broad spectrum of knowledge, skills and attitudes, which, when taken together, define a competent emergency physician (EP). The objectives of this pilot study were: 1) to determine the resources used by academic EPs to maintain competence and 2) to determine academic EPs' learning priorities.

Methods:

Using a modified Dillman method, we surveyed EPs from 2 Canadian academic tertiary health sciences centres.

Results:

Thirty-seven (68.5%) of 54 EPs responded. Of those responding, 14 (37.8%) attended grand rounds 3 times or more annually, and 34 (91.7%) attended a medical conference or course at least once annually. Thirty-three (89.2%) respondents read journal articles at least once monthly, with 22 (59.5%) of those reading synopses of original articles. Twenty-three (62.1%) received clinical updates via email, and 11 (29.7%) subscribed to an audio journal or podcast of reviews of original research. Among the CanMEDS roles, Medical Expert, Scholar and Manager were selected as top professional development priorities by more than one-third of respondents. The topics that were not selected as priorities by respondents included patient communication and charting (Communicator); conflict resolution skills and teamwork abilities (Collaborator); advocate for patient and promote health in emergency department populations (Health Advocate) and ethical conflict resolution (Professional).

Conclusion:

The results of this pilot study suggest that in order to maintain clinical competence in emergency medicine, traditional formats of professional development (e.g., grand rounds, print media and original research) are being substituted for independent study, online media and reviews of original research. This study also suggests a strong preference for Medical Expert topics, while Professional, Health Advocate, Collaborator and Communicator topics are not a reported priority for professional development.
An overview of injuries to adolescents and young adults related to substance use: data from Canadian emergency departments
Authors: Lea Sarah , Black Karen , Asbridge Mark
Published: July 2016

Objective:

Alcohol is a significant risk factor for injury, and is one of the leading causes of death, disability and premature mortality among young Canadians. This paper provides an overview of alcohol-related injury among adolescents and young adults presenting to Canadian emergency departments (EDs).

Methods:

We reviewed records from the Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program database during the 4-year period between 2000 and 2003. We included individuals younger than 25 years who presented to EDs in 11 pediatric and general hospitals with injuries for which alcohol, either alone or in conjunction with drugs, was recorded as a contributing factor. We examined key socio-demographic and injury-related factors associated with alcohol and drug-related injuries, including intent and disposition.

Results:

Alcohol was identified as a factor in 2389 injuries during this 4-year period; 408 (17%) of these cases also involved drug use. Approximately 55% of these patients were male and the majority was between 15 and 19 years of age. Unintentional injuries were the most common presentation, self-harm injuries were more common among female patients and violence-related injuries were more common among male patients. Most patients received treatment for their injuries. However, as age increased, outcome differences were observed between sexes.

Conclusion:

Alcohol-related injuries are increasing among Canadian youth. These findings highlight the importance of obtaining thorough drug and alcohol histories and measurement, when appropriate, for adolescents and young adults presenting to EDs with injuries.
International Federation for Emergency Medicine model curriculum for medical student education in emergency medicine
Authors: Hobgood Cherri , Anantharaman Venkataraman , Bandiera Glen , Cameron Peter , Halperin Pinchas , Holliman James , Jouriles Nicholas , Kilroy Darren , Mulligan Terrence , Singer Andrew ,   International Federation for Emergency Medicine
Published: July 2016

There is a critical and growing need for emergency physicians and emergency medicine resources worldwide. To meet this need, physicians must be trained to deliver time-sensitive interventions and life-saving emergency care. Currently, there is no internationally recognized standard curriculum that defines the basic minimum standards for emergency medicine education. To address this deficiency, the International Federation for Emergency Medicine convened a committee of international physicians, health professionals and other experts in emergency medicine and international emergency medicine development, to outline a curriculum for foundation training of medical students in emergency medicine. This curriculum document represents the consensus of recommendations by this committee.

The curriculum is designed with a focus on the basic minimum emergency medicine educational content that any medical school should be delivering to its students during undergraduate training. It is designed not to be prescriptive, but to assist educators and emergency medicine leadership in advancing physician education in basic emergency medicine content. The content would be relevant not just for communities with mature emergency medicine systems, but also for developing nations or for nations seeking to expand emergency medicine within current educational structures. We anticipate that there will be wide variability in how this curriculum is implemented and taught, reflecting the existing educational milieu, the resources available and the goals of the institutions' educational leadership.
Prevalence of and risk factors for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus skin and soft tissue infection in a Canadian emergency department
Authors: Stenstrom Robert , Grafstein Eric , Romney Marc , Fahimi John , Harris Devin , Hunte Garth , Innes Grant , Christenson Jim
Published: July 2016

Objective:

We sought to estimate the period prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) and evaluate risk factors for MRSA SSTI in an emergency department (ED) population.

Methods:

We carried out a cohort study with a nested case–control design. Patients presenting to our ED with a wound culture and a discharge diagnosis of SSTI between January 2003 and September 2004 were dichotomized as MRSA positive or negative. Fifty patients with MRSA SSTI matched by calendar time to 100 controls with MRSA-negative SSTI had risk factors assessed using multivariate conditional logistic regression.

Results:

Period prevalence of MRSA SSTI was 54.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 50.2%–59.4%). The monthly period prevalence increased from 21% in January 2003 to 68% in September 2004 (p < 0.01). Risk factors for MRSA SSTI were injection drug use (IDU) (odds ratio [OR] 4.6, 95% CI 1.4–16.1), previous MRSA infection and colonization (OR 6.4, 95% CI 2.1–19.8), antibiotics in 8 weeks preceding index visit (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.2–8.1), diabetes mellitus (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.4–12.1), abscess (OR 5.6, 95% CI 1.8–17.1) and admission to hospital in previous 12 months (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.1–11.2).

Conclusion:

The period prevalence of MRSA SSTI between January 2003 and September 2004 was 54.8% at our institution. There was a marked increase in the monthly period prevalence from the beginning to the end of the study. Risk factors are IDU, previous MRSA infection and colonization, prescriptions for antibiotics in previous 8 weeks and admission to hospital in the preceding 12 months. On the basis of local prevalence and risk factor patterns, emergency physicians should consider MRSA as a causative agent for SSTI.
Prevalence of information gaps for seniors transferred from nursing homes to the emergency department
Authors: Cwinn Matthew A. , Forster Alan J. , Cwinn A. Adam , Hebert Guy , Calder Lisa , Stiell Ian G.
Published: July 2016

Objective:

Information gaps, defined as previously collected information that is not available to the treating physician, have implications for patient safety and system efficiency. For patients transferred to an emergency department (ED) from a nursing home or seniors residence, we determined the frequency and type of clinically important information gaps and the impact of a regional transfer form.

Methods:

During a 6-month period, we studied consecutive patients who were identified through the National Ambulatory Care Reporting System database. Patients were over 60 years of age, lived in a nursing home or seniors residence, and arrived by ambulance to a tertiary care ED. We abstracted data from original transfer and ED records using a structured data collection tool. We measured the frequency of prespecified information gaps, which we defined as the failure to communicate information usually required by an emergency physician (EP). We also determined the use of the standardized patient transfer form that is used in Ontario and its impact on the rate of information gaps that occur in our community.

Results:

We studied 457 transfers for 384 patients. Baseline dementia was present in 34.1% of patients. Important information gaps occurred in 85.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 82.0%–88.0%) of cases. Specific information gaps along with their relative frequency included the following: the reason for transfer (12.9%), the baseline cognitive function and communication ability (36.5%), vital signs (37.6%), advanced directives (46.4%), medication (20.4%), activities of daily living (53.0%) and mobility (47.7%). A standardized transfer form was used in 42.7% of transfers. When the form was used, information gaps were present in 74.9% of transfers compared with 93.5% of the transfers when the form was not used (p< 0.001). Descriptors of the patient's chief complaint were frequently absent (81.0% for head injury [any information about loss of consciousness], 42.4% for abdominal pain and 47.1% for chest pain [any information on location, severity and duration]).

Conclusion:

Information gaps occur commonly when elderly patients are transferred from a nursing home or seniors residence to the ED. A standardized transfer form was associated with a limited reduction in the prevalence of information gaps; even when the form was used, a large percentage of the transfers were missing information. We also determined that the lack of descriptive detail regarding the presenting problem was common. We believe this represents a previously unidentified information gap in the literature about nursing home transfers. Future research should focus on the clinical impact of information gaps. System improvements should focus on educational and regulatory interventions, as well as adjustments to the transfer form.
An international study of emergency physicians' practice for acute headache management and the need for a clinical decision rule
Authors: Perry Jeffrey J. , Eagles Debra , Clement Catherine M. , Brehaut Jamie , Kelly Anne-Maree , Mason Suzanne , Stiell Ian G.
Published: July 2016

Objective:

Patients with acute headache often undergo computed tomography (CT) followed by a lumbar puncture to rule out subarachnoid hemorrhage. Our international study examined current practice, the perceived need for a clinical decision rule for acute headache and the required sensitivity for such a rule.

Methods:

We approached 2100 emergency physicians from 4 countries (Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States) to participate in our survey by sampling the membership of their emergency associations. We used a modified Dillman technique with 3–5 notifications and a prenotification letter employing a combination of electronic mail and postal mail. Physicians were questioned about neurologically intact patients who presented with headache. Analysis included both descriptive statistics for the entire sample and stratification by country.

Results:

The total response rate was 54.7% (1149/2100). Respondents were primarily male (75.5%), with a mean age of 42.5 years and a mean 12.3 years of emergency department (ED) experience. Of the physicians who responded, 49.5% thought all acute headache patients should be investigated with CT and 57.4% felt CT should always be followed by lumbar puncture. Of the respondents, 95.7% reported they would consider using a clinical decision rule for patients with acute headache to rule out subarachnoid hemorrhage. Respondents deemed the median sensitivity required by such a rule to be 99% (interquartile range 98%–99%). Approximately 1 in 5 physicians suggested that 100% sensitivity was required.

Conclusion:

Emergency physicians report that they would welcome a clinical decision rule for headache that would determine which patients require costly or invasive tests to rule out subarachnoid hemorrhage. The required sensitivity of such a rule was realistic. These results will inform and inspire the development of clinical decision rules for acute headache in the ED.
Emergency department visual urinalysis versus laboratory urinalysis
Authors: Worrall James C.
Published: July 2016

Objective:

The primary objective of this study was to compare the results of nurse-performed urinalysis (NPU) interpreted visually in the emergency department (ED) with laboratory-performed urinalysis (LPU) interpreted by reflectance photometry.

Methods:

This was a prospective observational study based on a convenience sample from my emergency practice. Emergency nurses, who were unaware of the study, performed usual dipstick analysis before sending the same urine sample to the laboratory for testing.

Results:

Of 140 urinalyses performed during the study period, 124 were suitable for analysis. When compared with the reference standard LPU, the NPU had an overall sensitivity of 100% (95% confidence interval [CI] 95%–100%) and a specificity of 49% (95% CI 33%–65%) for the presence of any 1 of blood, leukocyte esterase, nitrites, protein, glucose or ketones in the urine. Of 20 falsely positive NPUs, 18 were a result of the nurse recording 1 or more components as “trace” positive.

Conclusion:

Although NPU does not yield identical results to LPU, a negative LPU is expected when the initial NPU in the ED is negative.
Applying the Lean principles of the Toyota Production System to reduce wait times in the emergency department
Authors: Ng David , Vail Gord , Thomas Sophia , Schmidt Nicki
Published: July 2016

Objective:

In recognition of patient wait times, and deteriorating patient and staff satisfaction, we set out to improve these measures in our emergency department (ED) without adding any new funding or beds.

Methods:

In 2005 all staff in the ED at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital began a transformation, employing Toyota Lean manufacturing principles to improve ED wait times and quality of care. Lean techniques such as value-stream mapping, just-in-time delivery techniques, workplace organization, reduction of systemic wastes, use of the worker as the source of quality improvement and ongoing refinement of our process steps formed the basis of our project.

Results:

Our ED has achieved major improvements in departmental flow without adding any additional ED or inpatient beds. The mean registration to physician time has decreased from 111 minutes to 78 minutes. The number of patients who left without being seen has decreased from 7.1% to 4.3%. The length of stay (LOS) for discharged patients has decreased from a mean of 3.6 to 2.8 hours, with the largest decrease seen in our patients triaged at levels 4 or 5 using the Canadian Emergency Department Triage and Acuity Scale. We noted an improvement in ED patient satisfaction scores following the implementation of Lean principles.

Conclusion:

Lean manufacturing principles can improve the flow of patients through the ED, resulting in greater patient satisfaction along with reduced time spent by the patient in
the ED.
Discordant creatine kinase and cardiac troponin T in the workup of acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Kanji Jamil , Fan Jerome
Published: July 2016

A 55-year-old man presented to the emergency department (ED) following 2 episodes of typical cardiac chest pain and nonspecific electrocardiogram findings. His serial cardiac marker assays revealed an elevated total creatine kinase (CK) and 2 negative cardiac troponin levels. Because of a high clinical suspicion of acute coronary syndrome, a total creatine kinase MB mass was obtained and found to be elevated. Subsequent cardiac angiography demonstrated a significantly flow-limiting coronary artery lesion, and stenting was performed. This case demonstrates that simultaneous CK and troponin measurements may have utility in selected ED patients with chest pain. The interpretation of discordant CK and troponin levels is discussed.
An interesting presentation of pediatric tetanus
Authors: Grunau Brian E. , Olson Joshua
Published: July 2016

Despite successful large-scale immunization programs in North America, there remains a significant population without active immunity to tetanus toxins because immunizations have been refused or delayed, and because of waning immunity. We report the case of a 7-year-old boy who presented to the emergency department with a chin laceration and a 7-day history of repeated falls of increasing frequency. We found this case to be associated with dysphagia and facial spasm, and we learned that the child had dropped a brick on his foot 2 weeks previously. The patient was subsequently diagnosed with tetanus and treated accordingly. Tetanus presentations to emergency departments may vary from mild muscular rigidity to advanced respiratory failure and thus clinicians should consider the diagnosis in various clinical presentations, especially in areas remote from advanced supportive care.
Seizures induced by recreational abuse of bupropion tablets via nasal insufflation
Authors: Kim Daniel , Steinhart Brian
Published: July 2016

Bupropion is a newer generation antidepressant that is commonly used for treatment of depression and for smoking cessation. Seizures are a frequently reported adverse effect of bupropion in therapeutic oral doses; however, there are limited data about the consequences of nasal insufflation of bupropion. We report the case of a patient who presented to the emergency department (ED) with a recent history of generalized tonic–clonic seizures whose etiology was initially a diagnostic mystery. After an initial visit to another ED, the patient presented to our ED later that day with a recurrence of the seizures after crushing and nasally insufflating oral bupropion tablets. We review important implications of this case to emergency medicine, including the potential for abuse of bupropion, the difference between intranasal and oral administration, the changing trends in the etiology of drug-related seizures and the importance of examining the nares in patients with unexplained seizure and delirium.
A prospective randomized controlled trial comparing circumferential casting and splinting in displaced Colles fractures
Authors: Grafstein Eric , Stenstrom Rob , Christenson Jim , Innes Grant , MacCormack Robert , Jackson Colin , Stothers Keith , Goetz Tom
Published: July 2016

Objective:

Our primary objective was to determine the effectiveness of 3 immobilization methods (circumferential casting [CC], volar–dorsal splinting [VDS] and modified sugar-tong [MST] splinting) in maintaining the position of displaced distal radius fractures after successful closed reduction. Our secondary objective was to assess long-term functional outcomes associated with immobilization with fibreglass splinting versus standard CC in patients maintaining initial nonoperative reductions.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective randomized single-blind controlled trial in patients over 18 years of age who presented to the emergency department with a displaced fracture of the distal radius requiring closed reduction. The primary outcome was loss of reduction (defined as radiologic slippage or the need for surgical fixation during the 3–4 week primary immobilization period after initial successful reduction). Secondary outcomes included DASH (disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand) score, return to work, activities of daily living, wrist pain, range of motion and grip strength assessed at 8 weeks and 6 months.

Results:

Thirty participants were randomly assigned to receive MST splinting, 31 to receive VDS and 40 to receive CC. Baseline characteristics were similar among groups. Radiographic loss of reduction occurred in 16% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.1%–28.9%) of participants in the VDS group, 20% (95% CI 7.6%–32.4%) in the CC group and 30% (95% CI 13.6°%–46.4°%) in the MST splinting group (p= 0.17). Based on multivariate analysis of variance, functional outcomes at 8 weeks were similar among groups (p= 0.89). DASH scores at 8 weeks and 6 months were similar among groups, based on 1-way analysis of variance (p> 0.25).

Conclusion:

Rates of loss in anatomic position were not statistically significant among the 3 types of dressings used. However, there was a clinically important trend of increased loss of reduction with the use of MST splinting. Functional outcomes at 8 weeks and 6 months were not significantly different between CC, VDS and MDS splinting. Ease of application and familiarity with use should guide clinical decisions when choosing a dressing type for displaced Colles fractures.
Patient-reported adverse drug-related events from emergency department discharge prescriptions
Authors: Hohl Corinne M. , Abu-Laban Riyad B. , Zed Peter J. , Brubacher Jeffrey R. , Tsai Gina , Kretz Patricia , Nemethy Kevin , Purssell Roy A.
Published: July 2016

Objective:

The tolerability of drugs prescribed on emergency department (ED) discharge is unknown. Our objectives were to quantify and describe adverse drug-related events (ADREs) as reported by patients triaged as Canadian Emergency Department Triage and Acuity Scale scores 3, 4 or 5, discharged from the ED with prescriptions.

Methods:

This prospective observational study was a planned substudy of a larger study on adherence to discharge prescriptions. This study was conducted in a tertiary care centre with an annual ED census of 69 000 visits. The primary outcome was the frequency of ADREs reported during a structured telephone questionnaire 2 weeks after ED discharge. An ADRE was deemed to have occurred if the patient reported a symptom consistent with a known ADRE that began and resolved within a plausible time frame after starting and stopping the drug, and if no alternative diagnosis was probable.

Results:

Research assistants contacted 258/301 (85.7%) patients discharged from the ED with a prescription. An ADRE was reported by 54/258 patients (20.9%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 16.4%–26.3%). The most commonly reported ADREs were nausea, constipation and drowsiness. None required hospital admission or caused death. Participants reporting ADREs were not more likely to make an unplanned ED or clinic revisit (crude odds ratio [OR] 1.1, 95% CI 0.6–2.2; adjusted OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.6–2.4).

Conclusion:

Approximately one-fifth of low-acuity patients prescribed medication on discharge from the ED report ADREs, but most of these are neither severe nor associated with an increase in use of health services. Attention to common preventable ADREs, such as opioid-associated constipation, could reduce the rate of ADREs in this population.
A population-based study of emergency department presentations for asthma in regions of Alberta
Authors: Rosychuk Rhonda J. , Voaklander Donald C. , Klassen Terry P. , Senthilselvan Ambikaipakan , Marrie Thomas J. , Rowe Brian H.
Published: July 2016

Objective:

We describe the epidemiology of asthma presentations to emergency departments (EDs) for 3 main regions in the province of Alberta.

Methods:

We used a comprehensive ED database to identify ED visits in Alberta from April 1999 to March 2005. We linked the visits to other provincial administrative databases to obtain all data on follow-up encounters for asthma during that period. Information extracted included demographics, regions of residence (Edmonton, Calgary or non–major urban [NMU]), timing of ED visits, and subsequent visits to non-ED settings. Data analysis included descriptive summaries and directly standardized visit rates.

Results:

During the 6-year study period, 93 146 patients made 199 991 ED visits for asthma. Crude rates in 2004/05 were 7.9/1000, 6.5/1000 and 15.4/1000 in the Edmonton, Calgary and NMU regions, respectively. The Edmonton and Calgary regions had consistently lower visit rates than the NMU regions. The ED visits were followed by low rates of follow-up visits in a variety of non-ED settings, at different intervals.

Conclusion:

Asthma is a relatively common presenting problem in Alberta EDs. This study identified relatively stable rates of presentation during the study period, and variation among regions in terms of age and sex. This study provides further understanding of the variation associated with ED presentation and indicates possible targets for specific interventions to reduce asthma-related ED visits.
Effect of an emergency department sepsis protocol on the care of septic patients admitted to the intensive care unit
Authors: Sweet David D. , Jaswal Dharmvir , Fu Winnie , Bouchard Matt , Sivapalan Praveena , Rachel Jen , Chittock Dean
Published: July 2016

Objective:

We sought to determine whether the implementation of a sepsis protocol in a Canadian emergency department (ED) improves care for the subset of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods:

After implementing a sepsis protocol in our ED we used an ICU database and chart review to compare various time-dependent end points and outcomes between a historical control year and the first year after implementation. We reviewed the charts of all patients admitted to the ICU within 24 hours of ED admission with a primary or other diagnosis of sepsis, severe sepsis or septic shock, who met criteria for early goal-directed therapy within the first 6 hours of their ED stay.

Results:

We compared 29 patients from the control year with 30 patients from the year after implementation of our sepsis protocol. We found that patients treated during the postintervention year had improvements in time to antibiotics (4.2 v. 1.0 h, difference = –3.2 h, 95% CI –4.8 to –2.0), time to central line placement (above the diaphragm) (11.6 v. 3.2 h, difference = –8.4 h, 95% CI –12.1 to –4.7), time to arterial line placement (7.5 v. 2.3 h, difference = –5.2 h, 95% CI –7.4 to –3.0), and achievement of central venous pressure and central venous oxygen saturation goals (11.1 v. 5.1 h, difference = –6.0 h, 95% CI –11.03 to –1.71, and 13.1 v. 5.5 h, difference = –7.6 h, 95% CI –11.97 to –3.16, respectively). There were no statistically significant differences in ICU length of stay, hospital length of stay or mortality (31.0% v. 20.0%, difference = –11.0%, 95% CI –33.1% to 11.1%).

Conclusion:

Implementation of an ED sepsis protocol improves care for patients with severe sepsis and septic shock.
Adverse events among patients registered in high-acuity areas of the emergency department: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Calder Lisa Anne , Forster Alan , Nelson Melanie , Leclair Jason , Perry Jeffrey , Vaillancourt Christian , Hebert Guy , Cwinn A. Adam , Wells George , Stiell Ian
Published: July 2016

Objective:

To enhance patient safety, it is important to understand the frequency and causes of adverse events (defined as unintended injuries related to health care management). We performed this study to describe the types and risk of adverse events in high-acuity areas of the emergency department (ED).

Methods:

This prospective cohort study examined the outcomes of consecutive patients who received treatment at 2 tertiary care EDs. For discharged patients, we conducted a structured telephone interview 14 days after their initial visit; for admitted patients, we reviewed the inpatient charts. Three emergency physicians independently adjudicated flagged outcomes (e.g., death, return visits to the ED) to determine whether an adverse event had occurred.

Results:

We enrolled 503 patients; one-half (n= 254) were female and the median age was 57 (range 18–98) years. The majority of patients (n= 369, 73.3%) were discharged home. The most common presenting complaints were chest pain, generalized weakness and abdominal pain. Of the 107 patients with flagged outcomes, 43 (8.5%, 95% confidence interval 8.1%–8.9%) were considered to have had an adverse event through our peer review process, and over half of these (24, 55.8%) were considered preventable. The most common types of adverse events were as follows: management issues (n= 18, 41.9%), procedural complications (n= 13, 30.2%) and diagnostic issues (n= 10, 23.3%). The clinical consequences of these adverse events ranged from minor (urinary tract infection) to serious (delayed diagnosis of aortic dissection).

Conclusion:

We detected a higher proportion of preventable adverse events compared with previous inpatient studies and suggest confirmation of these results is warranted among a wider selection of EDs.