The Journal of pediatrics
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The Journal of pediatrics · May 2008
Multicenter StudyVariation in inpatient resource utilization and management of apparent life-threatening events.
To report national variations in diagnostic approaches to apparent life-threatening events (ALTEs) and resource utilization. ⋯ There is considerable hospital-based variation in care for patients hospitalized for conditions potentially identifiable as ALTE, particularly in the evaluation and diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux, which may contribute to adverse clinical and financial outcomes. An evidence-based national standard of care for ALTE is needed, as are multi-institutional initiatives to study different diagnostic and management strategies and their effect on patient outcomes.