Key result
In 383 911 calls for patients with heart failure, the most frequent reasons for EMS activation were breathing problems (55.4%), chest pain (18.3%), and decreased consciousness (15.4%).
Why the study?
Heart failure is a common condition leading to activation of emergency medical services (EMS), but the reasons callers request EMS activation during 911 calls needed description.
Observational (n=383)
Symptoms of heart failure exacerbation, particularly breathing problems, are common reasons for 911 calls, but callers rarely mention the patient's heart failure diagnosis during the emergency.
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Informs EMS triage for heart failure; leaves open effects on outcomes pending prospective studies.
Jung et al. (2021) conducted an observational in Heart failure (n=383). 911 calls for emergency medical services was evaluated on Reasons for requesting EMS activation. In 383 911 calls for patients with heart failure, the most frequent reasons for EMS activation were breathing problems (55.4%), chest pain (18.3%), and decreased consciousness (15.4%).
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