Key result
Previously developed triage criteria for refusal of ED care failed validation, as 1.1% of patients meeting criteria required hospitalization compared to 0.02% in prior reports (p<10^-7).
Why the study?
Can previously developed triage criteria for refusal of care to ED patients with nonurgent problems be validated in an independent patient population?
Cohort (n=534)
No
Can previously developed triage criteria for refusal of care to ED patients with nonurgent problems be validated in an independent patient population?
Effect estimate: >50-fold difference
Absolute Event Rate: 1.1% vs 0.02%
p-value: p=< 10 (-7)
The previously developed predictive model for refusal of care to ED patients could not be validated, suggesting that refusing care based on current guidelines is not a viable solution to ED overcrowding.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Existing triage criteria for refusing ED care are not safe to implement; challenges prior validation and leaves open need for improved tools.
Birnbaum et al. (1994) conducted a cohort in nonurgent emergency department presentations (n=534). previously developed triage criteria for refusal of care vs. prior reports was evaluated on hospitalization (>50-fold difference, p=< 10 (-7)). Previously developed triage criteria for refusal of ED care failed validation, as 1.1% of patients meeting criteria required hospitalization compared to 0.02% in prior reports (p<10^-7).
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