Annals of emergency medicine
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This scoping review was conducted to collate and summarize the published research literature addressing sexual and gender minority care in the emergency department (ED). ⋯ The current literature encompassing ED sexual and gender minority care cluster into 6 themes. There are considerable gaps to be addressed in optimizing culturally competent and equitable care in the ED for this population. Future research to address these gaps should include substantial patient stakeholder engagement in all aspects of the research process to ensure patient-focused outcomes congruent with sexual and gender minority values and preferences.
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Observational Study
Universal SARS-CoV-2 Testing of Emergency Department Admissions Increases Emergency Department Length of Stay.
Our institution experienced a change in SARS-CoV-2 testing policy as well as substantial changes in local COVID-19 prevalence, allowing for a unique examination of the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 testing and emergency department (ED) length of stay. ⋯ Although universal SARS-CoV-2 testing of ED admissions may meaningfully support mitigation and containment efforts, the clinical cost of testing all admissions amid low community positivity is notable. In our system, universal ED SARS-CoV-2 testing was associated with a 24% increase in admission length of stay alongside the detection of only 1 positive case every other day. Given the known harms and risks of ED boarding and crowding, solutions must be developed to support regular operational flow while balancing infection prevention needs.