J Emerg Med
-
Observation units (OBS) are becoming a common addition to the emergency department. The diagnostic and socioeconomic categories of patients admitted to the OBS unit resemble those seen in the emergency department. There are many advantages and disadvantages in establishing such a unit. Although OBS units provide improved patient care, current difficulties in reimbursement may delay their widespread acceptance.
-
Prehospital care has undergone a significant evolution during the past two decades and has been transformed from a transportation service into an advanced life support (ALS) delivery system. Crucial to the quality of such a program is physician knowledge and medical control. ⋯ The resident physician is exposed to a number of varying emergency medical services (EMS) systems, administrative experiences, and most uniquely, functions as a paramedic within our own ALS EMS system. In this manner, we believe the resident best obtains an understanding of the environment, attitudes, and behavior of prehospital personnel.