bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P125: Introduction of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) into emergency care: a feasibility study
Authors: Rollo D. , Atkinson P. , Fraser J. , Mekwan J. , French J. P. , Lutchmedial S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Traditionally, out of hospital cardiac arrests (CA) have poor outcomes. Incorporation of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) is being used increasingly to supplement ACLS to provide better outcomes for patients. Current literature suggests potentially improved outcomes, including neurological function. We assessed the feasibility of introduction of ECPR to a regional hospital using a 4-phase study. We report phase-1, an estimation of the number of potential candidates for ECPR in our setting. Methods: Following development and agreement on local criteria for selection of patients for ECPR using a modified Delphi Technique, inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied retrospectively, to a database comprising 4 years of emergency department (ED) cardiac arrests (n=395). This provided estimates of the number of patients who would have qualified for EMS transport for ECPR and initiation of ECPR in the ED. Results: Application of criteria would result in 20.0% (95% CI 16.2-24.3%) of CA being transported to the ED for ECPR (mean 18.5 patients per year). In the ED 4.6% (95% CI 2.83-7.26%) would be eligible to receive ECPR (4.3 patients per year). Incorporating downtime criteria, 3.0% (95% CI 1.6-5.3%) qualify. After considering local in-house cardiac catheterization hours 9.4% (95% CI 6.8-12.9%) and 5.4% (95% CI 3.5-8.2%), without and with EMS rhythm assumptions respectively, would be eligible for transport. For placement on pump, 3.0% (95% CI 1.6-5.3%) and 2.4% (95% CI 1.2-4.6%), without and with use of total downtime respectively, were eligible. Conclusion: If historical patterns of CA were to continue, we believe that an ECPR program may be feasible in our regional hospital setting, with a small number of selected cardiac arrest patients meeting eligibility for transportation and initiation of ECPR. These numbers suggest that an ECPR program would not be resource intensive, yet would be sufficiently busy to maintain adequate team competency.
P128: Time of transfer of admitted patients from the ED: a potential area for improvement of patient flow in very high-volume emergency departments
Authors: Salehi L. , Phalpher P. , Jegatheeswaran V. , Valani R. , Herman J. , Mercuri M.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Bed boarding of admitted patients in the Emergency Department (ED) is widely recognized as a major contributor to overcrowding, particularly in very high-volume hospitals. The issue of bed boarding is directly tied to hospital-wide capacity, flow and operations. Early morning discharge from inpatient units has been identified as a low-cost intervention to decrease bed boarding, as it allows earlier transfer of admitted patients from the ED. Several hospitals have instituted discharge before noon, or discharge before 10AM policies, practices and targets. Our objectives were 1) to assess the current status of flow within 3 high-volume community hospitals with respect to time of day of discharges from the in-patient units and time of day of transfers from the ED to in-patient units, and 2) to assess the association between time of transfer from the ED and total ED Length of Stay (EDLOS) of admitted patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective multi-centre observational study during the period of January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015 at three high-volume community hospitals within Ontario, Canada. All patients admitted to the Medicine service were identified. Time of discharge from the in-patient units and time of transfer from the ED were collected for all patients. EDLOS was calculated for all patients as a function of time of transfer from the ED. Results: Preliminary findings show that, for the three community hospitals, only 11.7% - 19.6% of admitted patients were discharged from the in-patient units during the period between 6AM and 12PM, with a peak discharge time of 2PM in all three hospitals. A concurrent lag was observed in the time of transfer of patients from the ED, with peak transfer times occurring the late afternoon between 3PM and 9PM, and coinciding with a peak in patient volume in the ED. Patients transferred out of the ED earlier in the day (between 12AM 11:59AM) had between 1.4 hours to 8.0 hours lower mean EDLOS when compared to those patients transferred later in the day (between 12PM 11:59PM). Conclusion: Hospital-wide flow and operational issues have a significant impact on ED bed boarding, and potential efficiencies seem at the current time to be underutilized. Interventions aimed at optimizing flow must be implemented alongside those aimed at increasing capacity in order to improve bed boarding. ** These findings are best communicated in graphic form to better represent the dynamics of the flow in and out of the ED over a 24-hour period, and will be presented in graphic format if selected for the conference.
P132: Real life management of patients presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding in a tertiary care emergency department - Are we delivering the standard of care?
Authors: Sandha S. , Bullard M. , Halloran B. , Joseph C. , Grigat D. , Lang E. S. , Veldhuyzen van Zanten S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common Emergency Department (ED) presentation. Early endoscopic intervention, supported by Glasgow Blatchford Score (GBS) severity, has been shown to reduce re-bleeding rates and lower morbidity and mortality. However, emergent endoscopy is not necessary for all patients. Low-risk patients can be managed with outpatient follow-up. Other important management decisions such as blood transfusion (Hb <70) and use of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) also warrant evaluation. The aim of this study was to compare the timing and appropriateness of endoscopy and blood transfusion and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use in a tertiary care setting to the standard of care. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted to examine the management of patients presenting with UGIB to the ED in 2016 using a standard chart review methodology. TANDEM and EDIS (Emergency Department Information System) databases were queried to identify patients using specified ICD 10 codes and the CEDIS (Canadian Emergency Department Information System) presenting complaints of vomiting blood or blood in stool/melena. Outcome measures included: patient characteristics, the GBS to determine appropriateness of endoscopic intervention, diagnoses, blood transfusion indications and utilization of oral or intravenous PPIs. Data were entered into a REDCap database and analyzed using standard non-parametric statistical tests. Results: A total of 200 patients, 59% male (118/200), mean age 59 years (range 18 - 92 years) were included. The median GBS was 9. 79% of patients (157/200) underwent endoscopy during the hospital visit: 30% of patients with GBS 0-3 (13/43) and 80% patients with GBS 4 (125/157) underwent endoscopy 24 hours. The two most common endoscopic diagnoses were peptic ulcers (39%, 61/157) and varices (18%, 28/157), while 14% (22/157) had a normal diagnosis or mild gastritis. 174/200 patients (87%) were given IV or oral PPI in the ED whereas the remaining 26 (13%) did not receive PPI in hospital. 46% of patients (89/194) received blood transfusion, but only 51% (45/89) were administered based on the 70 g/L threshold while in 40% (36/89) of patients the less restrictive threshold of 90 g/L was used. Conclusion: A majority of UGIB patients presenting to a tertiary hospital ED appropriately received endoscopy 24 hours based on a GBS score 4. PPI use was appropriate but a proportion of patients received inappropriate blood transfusions.
P142: Diagnosis of pulmonary embolism in the Canadian context: clinical review findings from a health technology assessment
Authors: Sinclair A. , Peprah K. , Quay T. , Mulla S. , Weeks L.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a diagnostic challenge, since it shares symptoms with other conditions. Missed diagnosis puts patients at a risk of a potentially fatal outcome, while false positive results leave them at risk of side effects (bleeding) from unnecessary treatment. Diagnosis involves a multi-step pathway consisting of clinical prediction rules (CPRs), laboratory testing, and diagnostic imaging, but the best strategy in the Canadian context is unclear. Methods: We carried out a systematic review of the diagnostic accuracy, clinical utility, and safety of diagnostic pathways, CPRs, and diagnostic imaging for the diagnosis of PE. Clinical prediction rules were studied by an overview of systematic reviews, and pathways and diagnostic imaging by a primary systematic review. Where feasible, a diagnostic test meta-analysis was conducted, with statistical adjustment for the use of variable and imperfect reference standards across studies. Results: The Wells CPR rule showed greater specificity than the Geneva, but the relative sensitivities were undetermined. Application of a CPR followed by with D-dimer laboratory testing can safely rule out PE. In diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis, computed tomography (CT) (sensitivity 0.973, 95% CrI 0.921 to 1.00) and ventilation/perfusion single-photon emission CT (VQ-SPECT) (sensitivity 0.974, 95% CrI 0.898 to 1.00) had the highest sensitivity) and CT the highest specificity (0.987, 95% CrI 0.958 to 1.00). VQ and VQ-SPECT had a higher proportion of indeterminate studies, while VQ and VQ-SPECT involved lower radiation exposure than CT. Conclusion: CPR and D-dimer testing can be used to avoid unnecessary imaging. CT is the most accurate single modality, but radiation risk must be assessed. These findings, in conjunction with a recent health technology assessment, may help to inform clinical practice and guidelines.
P145: The role of audit and feedback in the ED setting: are physicians able to accurately predict their own practice?
Authors: Stang A. , Law S. , Gjata I. , Burak K. , Dowling S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Prior research has shown that audit and feedback (A &F) can be an effective tool for practice change. However, questions remain about how to optimize A&F. The objectives of this project were to determine if: 1) there are differences in practice between physicians who do, and do not, consent to receive a confidential report on their practice and; 2) if there is a relationship between consenting physicians self-predicted and actual practice. Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional study embedded in a larger quality improvement (QI) initiative to align physician practice with best evidence in the emergency department (ED) care of infants with bronchiolitis. All physicians practicing in the ED of a tertiary care pediatric hospital were offered the opportunity to consent to receive an individual, confidential data report on their practice. Prior to receiving their data, consenting physicians completed a survey which asked them to predict the proportion of bronchiolitic patients for whom they ordered diagnostic tests or treatments. We used chi-squared testing to compare the proportion of consenting and non-consenting physicians whose diagnostic test (Chest X-ray (CXR), viral study) and treatment (steroid, Ventolin) ordering was above the median for all ED physicians. We used Pearsons correlation to assess the relationship between consenting physicians self -predicted and actual practice. Results: 56% (37/66) of physicians consented to receive a data report. The median proportion of patients with an x-ray ordered was 20%, 63% of non-consenters were above the median, compared to 36% of consenters (X2 (1, N=66)=4.91 p=0.03). For viral testing, 31% of patients had a test ordered, with 50% of non-consenters and 50% consenters above the median (( X2 (1, N=66) =0 p=1); 11% of patients had steroids ordered, with 53% of non-consenters and 47% of consenters above the median ( X2 (1, N=66)=0.24 p-0.621); and 18% of patients had Ventolin ordered, with 60% of non-consenters and 42% of consenters above the median ( X2 (1, N=66) =2.2 p=0.138). There was a moderate correlation between physicians predicted and actual practice with respect to viral testing (r=0.67), but minimal correlation for CXR (0.05), steroids (r=0.17) or Ventolin (r=0.33) ordering. Conclusion: The finding that physicians have a limited ability to accurately predict their own performance emphasizes the importance of providing physicians with feedback. However, our results suggest that the consent process may be a potential barrier to effective A &F.
P148: What do surgeons expect of the Emergency Department in the diagnosis and management of pediatric appendicitis?
Authors: Thompson G. C. , Selby S. , Blair G. , Yanchar N.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: The optimal diagnostic strategy for children presenting to the Emergency Department (ED) with suspected appendicitis (SA), the most common non-traumatic surgical emergency in children, remains unclear. This study aims to identify which investigations and management priorities are preferred by Canadian surgeons prior to consultation from the ED. Methods: An internet survey was extended to practicing surgeons who are members of the Canadian Association of Pediatric Surgeons and Canadian Association of General Surgeons. Three case-based scenarios evaluated surgeons expected ED investigations and management for SA with varying severity of disease (simple - SA vs perforated - PA) and sex (male vs female). Differences across scenarios were determined by ANOVA and direct comparisons were reported using proportions and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Surveys were completed by 82 surgeons. Across the 3 cases, CBC (227/246, 92.3%) and urinalysis (188/246, 76.4%) were the sole investigations expected in >75% of responses. Expectations differed across cases for use of blood cultures (p<0.001), electrolytes (p<0.001), sexually transmitted infection testing (0.015) and ultrasound (US) (p<0.001). Blood cultures (26/82, 31.7% vs 4/82, 4.9%; OR 9.05 95%CI 2.88-37.33) and electrolytes (58/82, 70.7% vs 33/82, 40.2%; OR 3.59 95%CI 1.79-7.24) were expected more often in severe disease. US was expected more often in females (58/82,70.7% vs 25/82, 30.5%; OR 5.51, 95% CI 2.68-11.38). Expected management differed across cases for fluid boluses (p=0.01), intravenous (IV) analgesia (p<0.001) and antibiotics (p<0.001), with all differences attributed to severity of illness (fluids 73/82, 89.0% vs 59/82, 72.0% OR 3.16 95%CI 1.28-8.33; IV analgesia 66/82, 80.5% vs 42/82, 51.2% OR 3.93 95%CI 1.86-8.45; antibiotics 44/82, 53.7% vs 10/82, 12.2% OR 8.34 95%CI 3.59-20.44). Conclusion: Severity of illness and sex of the child impact the ED investigations and management expected by surgeons consulted for suspected appendicitis. Further research focusing on how these expectations influence patient outcomes should be conducted. Collaborative ED-surgery protocols for the diagnosis and management of acute appendicitis in children should be established.
P160: Outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy following emergency department treatment of non-purulent skin and soft tissue infections: a descriptive analysis
Authors: Yadav K. , Suh K. , Eagles D. , Thiruganasambandamoorthy V. , Wells G. A. , Stiell I. G.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Emergency department (ED) patients with non-purulent skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) requiring intravenous antibiotics may be managed via outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT). To date, there are no prospective studies describing the performance of an ED-to-OPAT clinic program. Furthermore, there are no studies that have examined physician rationale for intravenous therapy, despite this being a critical first step in the decision to refer to an OPAT program. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational cohort study of adults (age 18 years) with non-purulent SSTIs receiving parenteral therapy at two tertiary care EDs. Patients were excluded if they had purulent infections or could not provide consent. The emergency physician completed a form documenting rationale for intravenous therapy, infection size, and choice of antimicrobial agent, dose and duration. OPAT treatment failure was defined as hospitalization after a minimum of 48 hours of OPAT for: (i) worsening infection; (ii) peripheral intravenous line complications; or (iii) adverse antibiotic events. Patient satisfaction was assessed at a 14-day telephone follow up. Results: We enrolled a consecutive sample of 153 patients (mean age 60 years, 82 male (53.6%) and 38 (24.8%) with diabetes). A total of 137 patients (89.5%) attended their clinic appointment. Of the 101 patients prescribed cefazolin, 50.5% received 1000 mg and 48.5% received 2000 mg per day. There were low rates of OPAT treatment failure (3.9%). None of the adverse peripheral intravenous line events (9.8%) or adverse antibiotic events (7.2%) required hospitalization. Patients reported a high degree of satisfaction with timeliness of clinic referral (median score 9 out of 10) and overall care received (median score of 10 out of 10). The top 5 reasons given by physicians for selecting intravenous therapy were: clinical impression of severity (52.9%); failed oral antibiotic therapy (41.8%); diabetes (17.6%); severe pain (7.8%); and peripheral vascular disease (7.8%). Conclusion: This is the first study to identify physician rationale for the use of intravenous antibiotics for SSTIs. There was significant variability in antibiotic prescribing practices by ED physicians. This prospective study demonstrates that an ED-to-OPAT clinic program for non-purulent SSTIs is safe, has a low rate of treatment failures and results in high patient satisfaction.
PL02: Probiotic regimen for outpatient gastroenteritis utility of treatment (PROGUT) study: a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Freedman S. , Williamson-Urquhart S. , Farion K. , Gouin S. , Willan A. , Poonai N. , Hurley K. , Sherman P. , Finkelstein Y. , Lee B. , Pang X. , Chui L. , Schnadower D. , Xie J. , Gorelick M. , Schuh S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Gastroenteritis accounts for 1.7 million emergency department visits by children annually in the United States. We conducted a double-blind trial to determine whether twice daily probiotic administration for 5 days, improves outcomes. Methods: 886 children aged 348 months with gastroenteritis were enrolled in six Canadian pediatric emergency departments. Participants were randomly assigned to twice daily Lactobacillus rhamnosus R0011 and Lactobacillus helveticus R0052, 4.0 x 109 CFU, in a 95:5 ratio or placebo. Primary outcome was development of moderate-severe disease within 14 days of randomization defined by a Modified Vesikari Scale score 9. Secondary outcomes included duration of diarrhea and vomiting, subsequent physician visits and adverse events. Results: Moderate-severe disease occurred in 108 (26.1%) participants administered probiotics and 102 (24.7%) participants allocated to placebo (OR 1.06; 95%CI: 0.77, 1.46; P=0.72). After adjustment for site, age, and frequency of vomiting and diarrhea, treatment assignment did not predict moderate-severe disease (OR, 1.11, 95%CI, 0.80 to 1.56; P=0.53). In the probiotic versus placebo groups, there were no differences in the median duration of diarrhea [52.5 (18.3, 95.8) vs. 55.5 (20.2, 102.3) hours; P=0.31], vomiting [17.7 (0, 58.6) vs. 18.7 (0, 51.6) hours; P=0.18], physician visits (30.2% vs. 26.6%; OR 1.19; 95% CI0.87. 1.62; P=0.27), or adverse events (32.9% vs. 36.8%; OR 0.83; 95%CI 0.62. 1.11; P=0.21). Conclusion: In children presenting to an emergency department with gastroenteritis, twice daily administration of 4.0 x 109 CFU of a Lactobacillus rhamnosus/helveticus probiotic does not prevent development of moderate-severe disease or improvements in other outcomes measured.
LO02: Characteristics and predictors of pediatric emergency department use in Manitoba: a population based study
Authors: Crockett L. K. , Wall-Wieler E. , Klassen T.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Within Manitoba, little is known about the current state of pediatric emergency department (ED) use or the state of provincial data collection. This study sought to gain a baseline understanding of pediatric ED use in Manitoba, including child demographics, visit characteristics, variation across the province, drivers of ED use, and data completeness. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using administrative data from the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, and included all children aged 0-17 who presented to a Manitoba ED between 2011/12 and 2015/16, as identified from the Emergency Department Information System (EDIS), the National Ambulatory Care Reporting System (NACRS) and physician billing claims. Frequency of use was defined as single, intermediate (2-6 visits) and frequent (7+) and regional trends in child characteristics, ED use, acuity, presenting complaints, and discharge dispositions were observed. Ordinal logistic regression will be used to identify predictors of ED use. Results: Overall, we were able to capture 250,620 ED visits made by 172,306 children; data sources and completeness varied by year. Provincially, children under 5 years of age were the most frequent users of the ED, and use <1 year of age was highest in the North. We observed higher use among low-income children, particularly in rural mid and north, and few differences by sex. By year, the majority of children made single-use of the ED (64.48%), while fewer were classified as intermediate (34.40%) or frequent users (1.11%). Overall, the top presenting complaints were for fever (10.27%), limb complaint/trauma (7.48%), abdominal pain (5.75%), nausea and/or vomiting (4.53%) and shortness of breath (3.68%), with variation by triage level. In rural but not urban areas, mental health assessments were a top presenting complaint and primary reason for transfer to larger centres. Results of predictors of ED use are pending. Conclusion: Results from this study will provide important information about the predictors and variation of ED use by region and top causes for visit, enabling us to better tailor knowledge mobilization efforts and tool development to the local context. Identified gaps in data collection are important to address to advance our knowledge and delivery of pediatric emergency care at the provincial level.
LO05: A statistical analysis to estimate the spatial dynamics of opioid-related emergency medical services responses in the city of Calgary 2017
Authors: Zhang M. , Mahsin M. , Huang L. , Fournier K. , Li Z. , Ngom R. , Trithart S. , MacDonald A. , Edwards S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Understanding the spatial distribution of opioid abuse at the local level may facilitate community intervention strategies. The purpose of this analysis was to apply spatial analytical methods to determine clustering of opioid-related emergency medical services (EMS) responses in the City of Calgary. Methods: Using opioid-related EMS responses in the City of Calgary between January 1st through October 31st, 2017, we estimated the dissemination area (DA) specific spatial randomness effects by incorporating the spatial autocorrelation using intrinsic Gaussian conditional autoregressive model and generalized linear mixed models (GLMM). Global spatial autocorrelation was evaluated by Morans I index. Both Getis-Ord Gi and the LISA function in Geoda were used to estimate the local spatial autocorrelation. Two models were applied: 1) Poisson regression with DA-specific non-spatial random effects; 2) Poisson regression with DA-specific G-side spatial random effects. A pseudolikelihood approach was used for model comparison. Two types of cluster analysis were used to identify the spatial clustering. Results: There were 1488 opioid-related EMS responses available for analysis. Of the responses, 74% of the individuals were males. The median age was 33 years ( IQR: 26-42 years) with 65% of individuals between 20 and 39 years, and 27% between 40 and 64 years. In 62% of EMS responses, poisoning/overdose was the chief complaint. The global Morans Index implied the presence of global spatial autocorrelation. Comparing the two models applied suggested that the spatial model provided a better fit for the adjusted opioid-related EMS response rate. Calgary Center and East were identified as hot spots by both types of cluster analysis. Conclusion: Spatial modeling has a better predictability to assess potential high risk areas and identify locations for community intervention strategies. The clusters identified in Calgarys Center and East may have implications for future response strategies.
LO06: Effects of emergency department system transformation (EDST) on patient experience of emergency department visits
Authors: Danby S. , Van Aarsen K. , Columbus M. , Dukelow A.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Emergency Department Systems Transformation (EDST) is a bundle of Toyota Production System based interventions partially implemented in two Canadian tertiary care Emergency Departments (ED) between June 2014- July 2016 with the goal to improve patient care by increasing value and reducing waste. Some of the 17 primary interventions included computerized physician order entry optimization, staff schedule realignment, physician scorecards and a novel initial assessment process. Some interventions have only been partially implemented due to persistent access block. This project was designed to examine the effect of partial EDST implementation on patient experience of emergency department visits. Patient satisfaction has been linked to improved patient outcomes, improved adherence to physician instruction, and improved provider satisfaction. Methods: Semi structured interviews were conducted over three distinct time periods (summer 2015, 2016 and 2017) to encompass progressive levels of EDST implementation. The interviews focused on the patients perceptions in each of 4 stages of their ED visit - Check-in, assessment, reassessment, and disposition. Patients were asked a list of positive (respected, listened to, supported, safe) and negative (in pain, worried, confused, frustrated) emotions frequently experienced and asked if they felt any of these emotions during their ED stay. Open ended questions were also asked about their overall visit. Descriptive statistics were calculated as differences in the proportion of patients feeling each emotion across timeframes. The open-ended question was coded by two reviewers as positive, negative or mixed. A kappa score was calculated to determine reviewer agreement. Results: 987 interviews were completed. In general, the proportion of patients feeling negative emotions remained consistent while positive emotions increased as EDST implementation progressed. For open-ended responses, the percentage of overtly positive experiences increased significantly from 2015 to 2017 (p=0.006), while overtly negative experiences did not significantly change. Reviewers agreed in the coding of the open-ended responses in 97.6% of surveys. The kappa score for reviewer agreement was 0.96 (95%CI 0.94-0.98) indicating almost perfect agreement. Conclusion: Partial implementation of EDST positively impacted patients experience of emergency department visits.
LO09: Population-based analysis of the effect of a comprehensive, systematic change in an emergency medical services resource allocation plan on 24 hour mortality
Authors: Tallon J. , Zheng L. , Djurdjev O. , Wei J. , Papadopoulos G. , Dick W.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Resource allocation planning (RAP) for emergency medical services (EMS) systems determines optimal resources for patient needs in order to minimize morbidity and mortality. The British Columbia Emergency Health Services developed a new RAP using an evidenced informed methodology, statistical analysis of outcomes and with further clinical input from EMS physicians, paramedics and allied EMS providers. The revised RAP was implemented on a pan provincial basis in fall of 2013. It is unknown how the modifications will affect outcomes of EMS cases. Population-based analysis was used to determine the effect of a comprehensive RAP changes by comparing 24-hour mortality before and after province-wide implementation of the revised RAP. Methods: The primary outcome, 24-hour mortality, was obtained through linked provincial health administrative data. All adult cases with evaluable outcome data were included in the analysis. A pre and post methodology was used to evaluate the effect of post-RAP revision (post-RAP-revision) on 24-hour mortality compared to pre-RAP revision (pre-RAP-revision). Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for variations in other significant factors associated with 24-hour mortality. The interrupted time series (ITS) estimated any immediate changes in the level or trend of outcome after the start of the revised RAP implementation (fall of 2013), while simultaneously controlling for pre-existing trends. Results: The cohort is comprised of 562,546 cases (April 2012 March 2015). In the multivariate model, adjusted for age, sex, urban/metro region, season, day hour, and MPDS determinant, the probability of dying within 24 hours of EMS call was 7% lower in the post-RAP-revision cohort (OR=0.936; 95% CI: 0.886 - 0.989; P=0.018). A sub-group analysis of immediately life-threatening cases demonstrated similar effect (OR=0.890; 95% CI: 0.808 - 0.981; P=0.019) Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that a comprehensive, evidence informed reconstruction of a provincial EMS RAP is feasible. Despite considerable change in crew level response and resource allocation, there was significant decrease in 24 hour mortality in a large pan-provincial population based patient cohort.
LO10: Faculty sim: a simulation-based continuing professional development curriculum for academic emergency physicians
Authors: Mastoras G. N. , Cheung W. J. , Krywenky A. , Addleman S. , Weitzman B. , Frank J. R.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Maintaining and enhancing competence in the breadth of Emergency Medicine (EM) is an ongoing challenge for all clinicians. In particular, resuscitative care in EM involves high-stakes clinical encounters that demand strong procedural skills, effective leadership, and up-to-date knowledge. However, Canadian emergency physicians are not required to complete any specific ongoing training for these encounters beyond general CPD requirements of professional colleges. Simulation-based medical education (SBME) is an effective modality for enhancing technical (e.g. procedural) and non-technical (i.e. Crisis Resource Management) skills in crisis situations, and has been embedded in undergraduate and postgraduate medical curricula worldwide. We present a novel comprehensive curriculum of simulation-based CPD designed specifically for academic emergency physicians (AEPs) at our centre. Methods: The curriculum development involved a departmental needs assessment survey, focus groups with AEPs, data from safety metrics and critical incidents, and consultations with senior departmental leadership. Institutional support was provided in the form of a $25,000 grant to fund a physician Program Lead, monthly session instructors, and simulation centre operating costs. Based on the results of the needs assessment, a two-year curriculum was mapped out and tailored to the available resources. Results: CPD simulation commenced in January 2017 and occurs monthly for three hours, immediately following departmental Grand Rounds to provide convenient scheduling. Our needs assessment identified two key types of educational needs: (1) Crisis Resource Management skills and (2) frequent practice of high-stakes critical care procedures (e.g. central lines). The first six months of implementation was dedicated to low-fidelity skills labs to facilitate the transition to SBME. After this, the program transitioned to a hybrid model involving two high-fidelity simulated resuscitations and one skills lab per session. Conclusion: We have introduced a comprehensive curriculum of ongoing simulation-based CPD in our department based on the educational needs of our AEPs. Key to our successful implementation has been support from educational and administrative leadership within our department. Ongoing challenges include securing adequate protected time from clinical duties for program facilitators and participants. Future work will include establishing permanent funding, CPD accreditation, and a formal program evaluation.
LO12: Implementation of an editorial internship at the Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine to foster education and participation in academic emergency medicine
Authors: Ting D. K. , Abu-Laban R. B. , Morrison L. , Ducharme J. , Lang E. S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Medical journals are an essential venue for knowledge translation. Skilled reviewers and editors are required to ensure quality standards in research publications and yet postgraduate programs rarely include this training in their curricula. Imparting appropriate skills and developing capacity in journalship has thus proved challenging. The Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine (CJEM) is the national journal for Emergency Medicine (EM) in Canada. The CJEM editorial board recently decided to provide longitudinal mentorship for junior academic faculty members and trainees through an editorial internship. The internship had three goals for participants: (1) introduce and develop the responsibilities and skills of a good editor; (2) enhance a career in academic EM; and, (3) galvanize future participation as a reviewer or editor in scientific publications. Methods: The senior editorial board of CJEM and the inaugural intern developed a one-year Editorial Internship that was launched in June 2017. The curricular framework was designed by current and prior CJEM senior editors from four Canadian universities, and was informed by similar programs in the United States. The curriculum was refined iteratively based on feedback and discussion between the senior editors and intern. The internship was designed for a single individual in the Canadian EM community, including residents, pediatric fellows and practicing emergency physicians. Results: To develop the responsibilities and skills of being a good editor, the intern performed six mentored reviews of manuscripts either under current review at CJEM or previous submissions identified as difficult peer review decisions. In addition, the intern learned about CJEM values and norms by participating in monthly videoconference meetings and quarterly editorial board meetings. To enhance an academic career, the intern was assigned two writing projects under the guidance of senior editors for publication in CJEM, and completed an online critical appraisal course. Conclusion: The inaugural editorial intern gained experience as an editor and produced scholarly work. We feel the internship met its first two goals, and CJEM has committed to continue the internship annually. The ultimate determination of whether the internship achieved its third goal will only be known after longitudinal tracking of participants career involvement in academic publishing and editing.
LO19: Understanding discharge communication behaviours in a pediatric emergency care context: a mixed methods study
Authors: Curran J. A. , Bishop A. , Plint A. , Macphee S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Optimal discharge communication between healthcare providers and parents who present to the emergency department (ED) with their children is not well understood. Current research regarding discharge communication is equivocal and predominantly focused on evaluating different delivery formats or strategies with little attention given to communication behaviours or the context in which the communication occurs. The objective of this study was to characterize the process and structure of discharge communication in a pediatric ED context. Methods: Real-time video observation and follow-up surveys were used in two academic pediatric EDs in Canada. Parents who presented with their child to the ED with one of six illness presentations, a Canadian Triage Acuity Score of 3-5 were eligible to participate. All ED physicians, learners, and staff members were also eligible. Provider-parent communication was analyzed using the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) to code each utterance. Parent health literacy and anxiety were measured upon admission to the ED. Parent recall of important discharge information and satisfaction with communication was assessed within 72 hours of discharge. Results: A total of 107 ED patient visits were video recorded and a total of 70,000 utterances were coded across six illness presentations: abdominal pain (n=23), asthma (n=7), bronchiolitis (n=4), diarrhea/vomiting (n=20), fever (n=27), and minor head injury (n=26). The average length of stay for participants was 3 hours, with an average of three provider interactions per visit. Interactions ranged in time from less than one minute up to 29 minutes, with an average of six minutes per interaction. The majority of visits were first episodes for the presenting illness (63.2%). Physician utterances coded most commonly involved giving medical information (22.9%), whereas nurses most commonly gave orientation instructions (20.9%). Learners were most likely to employ active listening techniques (14.2%). Communication that provided post-discharge instructions for parents comprised 8.5% of all utterances. Overall, providers infrequently assessed parental understanding of information (2.0%). Only 26% of parents recalled receiving important discharge information deemed relevant to their childs disposition. Yet, parent satisfaction with the amount of information communicated during the ED visit was generally high (89.6% agreed or strongly agreed). Conclusion: This is the first study of ED discharge communication to be conducted in a pediatric setting using video observation methods. Provider-parent communication was predominantly characterized by giving medical information, with little time devoted to preparing families to care for their child at home. Greater assessment of parent comprehension of discharge communication is needed to ensure that parents understand important instructions and know when to seek further care.
LO25: The development and implementation of a standardized emergency department handover tool
Authors: Kwok E. S. H. , Clapham G. , White S. , Austin M. , Calder L.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: There is a high risk for communication breakdown, discontinuity of clinical care, and medical errors during ED physician handover. Locally, there is no standardized handover process to ensure adequate communication of critical information. Our aim was to use a locally developed handover tool to increase frequency of adequate physician handover during overnight shift change by 50% in 4 months. Methods: Using published best practices, local observational data, and stakeholder input, we determined critical components of ED handovers. We developed a structured communication tool for two unique populations in our ED: ED-VITAL for patients receiving active ED care; ED-VSA for patients who are admitted/referred. Strategies used to implement the tool included: engagement of staff physicians to introduce & modify the tool; formal education and training to ED residents; and provision of cognitive aids. A QI coordinator conducted direct observations of handovers using convenience sampling. We provided feedback to staff and resident physicians, and used their input to continuously modify the tool. The main outcome measure was adequate patient handover, defined as verbal communication of 50% of critical handover components, or documentation of key information on an electronic note. Process measures included tool utilization characteristics. Balance measures included time metrics such as handover duration. We present run charts and qualitative statistics. Results: We assessed 368 individual patient handovers (93 pre- & 275 post-implementation). The median proportion of patients in active ED care who were verbally handed over increased from 75% to 100%. The median proportion of adequate handovers improved from 50% to 72%. The time to deliver handover increased by 13 seconds per patient. Qualitative feedback from end users was positive overall, particularly for communication quality and resident educational value. Conclusion: Use of a standardized handover tool improved both verbal and documented communication during shift change. A customized approach, sensitive to local context, was important to successful implementation. Residents play a large role in handovers; strategies to improve handover processes that emphasize medical education appear to enhance success. Future PDSA cycles will focus on interventions to further enhance the utilization of the tool, and to measure direct impact on clinical outcomes.
LO28: Utilité diagnostique des D-dimères pour le diagnostic du syndrome aortique aigu: une revue systématique et méta-analyse
Authors: Cournoyer A. , Langlois-Carbonneau V. , Daoust R. , Chauny J.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Le syndrome aortique aigu (SAA) est une condition potentiellement létale et nécessitant une prise en charge immédiate et fréquemment chirurgicale. Lutilisation dun test de D-dimère a été proposé afin dexclure ce diagnostic suite à de nombreuses études récentes sur le sujet. Dans ce contexte, lobjectif de la présente revue systématique et méta-analyse était dévaluer et de synthétiser lévidence disponible quant à la valeur diagnostique dun dosage de D-dimères pour le SAA. Methods: Les bases de données Medline, Cochrane, ACP Journal Club, DARE, Health technology assessment, NHS Economic evaluation et Embase ont été fouillées en utilisant les mots clés «D-Dimers» et «Acute aortic». Les bibliographies des articles retenus ont également été consultées. Les résultats des études incluses ont été regroupés pour calculer la sensibilité, la spécificité, le rapport de vraisemblance positif (RV+) et négatif (LR-) du test de D-dimères aux seuils choisis par les auteurs. Les sensibilités et spécificités sont présentées avec leurs intervalles de confiance (IC) à 95% et les RV+ et RV- sont donnés à titre indicatif. Results: À partir des 6942 articles initialement identifiés, 34 études portant sur lutilité diagnostique des D-dimères en SAA, incluant un total de 7938 patients, ont été retenues. La prévalence globale de SAA était de 27,1%, mais variait considérablement dune étude à lautre (médiane=38,5%; intervalle interquartile=29% ; prévalence minimale=0.7% ; prévalence maximale=100%). Les seuils de positivité des tests de D-dimères variaient également selon lentreprise les fabriquant. La sensibilité dun test de D-dimères selon le seuil proposé par leur fabriquant était de 91% (IC 95% 86-96) et la spécificité 46% (IC 95% 39-54). Le RV+ était de 1,69 et le VR- était de 0,2. Conclusion: La prévalence très variable du SAA dans la population regroupée par ces études laisse présager une différence entre ces populations et celles rencontrées en médecine durgence. Un test de D-dimères a sensibilité acceptable, mais imparfaite, qui ne semble pas permettre dexclure une pathologie aussi grave que le SAA.
LO30: Prevalence of pulmonary embolism among emergency department patients with syncope: a multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Thiruganasambandamoorthy V. , Sivilotti M. L.A. , Rowe B. H. , McRae A. D. , Mukarram M. , Yagapen A. , Nemnom M. , Sun B.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: The prevalence of pulmonary embolism (PE) among patients with syncope is understudied. Based on a recent study with an exceptionally high PE prevalence, some advocate investigating all syncope patients for PE, including those with another clear cause for their syncope. We sought to evaluate the PE prevalence among emergency department (ED) patients with syncope. Methods: We combined data from two large prospective studies enrolling adults with syncope from 17 EDs in Canada and the United States. Each study collected the results of investigations related to PE (i.e. D-dimer or ventilation-perfusion (VQ) scan, or computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA)), and 30-day adjudicated outcomes including diagnosis of PE, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, serious hemorrhage and/or death. Results: Of the 9,091 patients (median age 66 years, 51.9% females, 39.1% hospitalized) with 30-day follow-up, 546 (6.0%) were investigated for PE: 278 (3.1%) had D-dimer, 39 (0.4%) had VQ and 347 (3.8%) patients had CTPA performed. 30-day outcomes included: 874 (9.6%) patients with any serious outcome; 0.9% deaths; and 818 (9.0%) patients with non-PE serious outcomes. Overall, 56 patients (prevalence 0.6%; 95% CI 0.5% 0.8%) were diagnosed with PE, including 8 (0.1%) of those admitted to hospital at the index presentation. Only 11 patients (0.1%) with a non-PE serious condition had a concomitant underlying PE identified. Conclusion: The prevalence of PE is very low among ED patients with syncope, including those hospitalized following syncope. While acknowledging syncope may be caused by an underlying PE, clinicians should be cautious against indiscriminate over-investigations for PE.
LO32: A RAPID bedside approach to ruling out acute aortic dissection
Authors: Ohle R. , McIsaac S. , Perry J. J.
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is a rare but fatal condition where over-investigation and missed diagnosis are common. Our objectives were to derive a highly sensitive clinical risk score for AAD and perform pilot validation. Methods: We started with two independent systemic reviews to firstly identify clinical variables associated with AAD and secondly to determine reasons for missed diagnosis. We searched Medline, Embase and the Cochrane database (1968-July 2016). Two reviewers screened articles and extracted data. Agreement was measured by Kappa and study quality by the QUADAS-2 tool. Bivariate random-effects meta-analyses (Revman 5 and SAS 9.3) were performed. Due to sampling bias found in the systematic reviews a matched case control study confirming the strength and direction of predictor variables was performed. The cases (2002-2014) included new emergency department (ED) or in-hospital diagnosis of non-traumatic AAD confirmed by computed tomography (CT). The controls (2010-2011) were a random age/sex matched sample of patients triaged with undifferentiated acute truncal pain (< 14 days). Finally, we used the beta coefficients derived from multivariate logistic regression of our case control study to assign a numerical strength of association to predictor variables. To mitigate the bias inherent in case control studies we adjusted the beta coefficient for each variable by the diagnostic odds ratio calculated from each systematic review. Pilot validation was performed on a retrospective sample of all those undergoing CTA to rule out AAD at two tertiary care ED over 12 months. Two abstractors were blinded to the final diagnosis. Results: We derived a two-step risk score based on the derivation sample which included 4960 patients(Clinical variables systematic review -9 studies, N=2400, low risk of bias, Kappa 0.9 & Reasons for missed diagnosis systematic review - 11 studies, N=800, low-moderate risk of bias, Kappa 0.89 & Case control study -194 AAD, 776 Controls). Step one is a RAPID assessment for AAD 1) Risk factors 2) Alternative diagnosis in the differential that mimics AAD- ACS, PE, Stroke 3) Physical exam- hypotension, pulse deficit 4) Impression- clinical suspicion of AAD and 5) Discomfort- migrating, tearing, pleuritic, thunderclap, severe pain. If any of the above factors are present proceed to step two. Step two stratifies patients based on history (low, moderate, high suspicion), physical exam (hypotension/pulse deficit) and risk factors. In the pilot validation (N=375,AAD=16) sensitivity was 100% (95%CI 79.4-100) and specificity 36.5% (95%CI 31.5-41.7%). Patients were successfully stratified into low (<2, 0% AAD), moderate (2, 2.2% AAD), high (>2, 19.6% AAD) and critical probability (>3, 62.5% AAD), with up to 36% reduction in imaging. Conclusion: We derived a highly sensitive new clinical risk score with the potential to reduce missed cases of AAD, reduce unnecessary imaging and expedite care.