Precision of Field Triage in Trauma Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Marius Rehn, Torsten Eken, Andreas Jorstad Krüger, Petter Andreas Steen, Nils Oddvar Skaga, Hans Morten Lossius
Primary Institution: Ulleval University Hospital, Norway
Hypothesis
The introduction of trauma team activation guidelines will improve triage precision for severely injured patients.
Conclusion
Triage precision had not improved after the introduction of TTA guidelines, with significant undertriage among paramedics.
Supporting Evidence
- Of the 4,659 patients included, 2,221 (48%) were severely injured.
- TTA occurred 4,440 times, with an overtriage rate of 55%.
- Undertriage was 10%, indicating that severely injured patients were not activated for TTA.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well emergency responders identify seriously injured patients. It found that even with new guidelines, many seriously hurt people still weren't getting the help they needed.
Methodology
Retrospective analysis of 7 years of trauma registry data for patients with trauma team activation or severe injury.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on existing trauma registry data and the subjective nature of triage decisions.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and may be subject to bias and incomplete data collection.
Participant Demographics
Median age of included patients was 32 years, with 90% suffering blunt injuries; 48% of patients were severely injured.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.6–3.4
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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