European journal of emergency medicine : official journal of the European Society for Emergency Medicine
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The objective of this study was to evaluate the supplemental oxygen use in hospital emergency departments (EDs) in Victoria. A prospective exploratory design was used. All patients attending the three-study EDs during the data-collection periods and who could give informed consent were eligible for inclusion. ⋯ Patients who received oxygen were older (P<0.001), had higher incidence of ambulance transport to ED (P<0.001) and hospital admission (P<0.001) and higher median respiratory (P<0.001) and median heart rates (P=0.008). Oxygen is a major component of emergency care. Patients who received oxygen were more likely to have clear evidence of physiological abnormalities; however, oxygen decision-making warrants more detailed investigation.
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To determine the effects of a communication skills training program on emergency medicine residents and patient satisfaction. ⋯ Participation in a communication skills training program was associated with improved communication skills of emergency medicine residents, increased patient satisfaction, and decreased complaints.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
The effect of a chest imaging lecture on emergency department doctors' ability to interpret chest CT images: a randomized study.
To assess the chest computed tomography (CT) imaging interpreting skills of emergency department (ED) doctors and to study the effect of a CT chest imaging interpretation lecture on these skills. ⋯ A single chest CT interpretation lecture did not improve chest CT interpretation by ED doctors. Less than one-third of doctors had a systematic approach to chest CT interpretation. A standardized systematic approach may improve interpretation skills.
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To evaluate compliance and costs of referral of nonurgent children, who present at the emergency department, to the general practitioner cooperative (GPC). ⋯ Compliance of referring low urgent patients is low, mainly because it was difficult for nursing staff to refer. Total overall cost benefit is minimal. Cost savings may be achieved in different settings, where general practitioner services are colocated and where large numbers can be referred.