Abstract

Objective: To determine whether daily board rounds in the emergency department (ED) alter patient management and whether they provide educational opportunities.

Method: A prospective observational study of board rounds conducted in a small to medium-sized ED in the United Kingdom. Data were collected on changes made and educational events that took place.

Results: Data were collected on 120 board rounds (984 patients). 5.8% of patients had a clinical change made. 12% of board rounds led to a significant change in at least one of investigation, treatment or disposition. 2% of board rounds led to a change in diagnosis. In 30% of board rounds teaching events took place.

Conclusion: Regular conduct of board rounds in a medium-sized UK ED is worthwhile and provides an additional teaching opportunity for juniors.