Patients Who Deteriorate in Paramedic Care
Author Information
Author(s): Malcolm J Boyle, Erin C Smith, Frank Archer
Primary Institution: Monash University
Hypothesis
What is the number and outcome of patients who suddenly deteriorated in the presence of paramedics?
Conclusion
The incidents of patients suddenly deteriorating in the presence of paramedics are low and the incidence of hospital bypass is not well documented.
Supporting Evidence
- 2,893 patients met the criteria for sudden deterioration, with 2,687 suitable for analysis.
- 85.1% of patients had a sudden decrease in blood pressure.
- 4.3% of patients had hospital defined major trauma.
Takeaway
This study looked at patients who got worse while paramedics were helping them, and found that it doesn't happen very often.
Methodology
A retrospective cohort study of trauma patients who suddenly deteriorated in the presence of paramedics during 2002.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to missing data and lack of documentation on hospital bypass.
Limitations
The study may have missing patient care records and lacks documentation on hospital bypass.
Participant Demographics
The mean age was 39.6 years, with 64% males and 36% females; 4.3% were pediatric and 23.1% were elderly.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95%
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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