CJEM
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To understand factors that contribute to variation in time to abdominal and/or pelvic ultrasound in pediatric patients in an emergency department (ED) by utilizing rational subgrouping to assess opportunity for improvement. ⋯ Longer time to study completion was observed in female patients, older patients, and during night shifts. Use of rational subgrouping supported understanding of variation among subgroups of patients evaluated with abdominal and/or pelvic ultrasound. This allowed informed decision-making regarding opportunities for improvement. Rational subgrouping is a useful methodology in planning QI initiatives as it identifies sources of variation within a nonhomogeneous population and allows for judicious decision-making in a context of limited resources.
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The significance of physician leadership to help transform the healthcare system has been increasingly discussed. This study looked at the qualities of emergency medicine (EM) physicians that support or inhibit their work as healthcare leaders. ⋯ As physician leadership is explored as a mechanism to support the healthcare system's success, this project provides insights into the realities experiences by EM physicians and considerations for healthcare professionals as they encourage physicians into leadership positions.