Original contribiution
Role of the observation unit in the management of thoracic trauma

https://doi.org/10.1016/0736-4679(86)90002-8Get rights and content

Abstract

Use of the observation unit in the management of 150 consecutive patients sustaining blunt or penetrating thoracic trauma, and initially presenting with stable vital signs, normal physical examination findings, and normal chest x-ray studies, was reviewed. All patients requiring admission declared themselves within six hours, with the exception of one asymptomatic patient whose repeat x-ray study was slightly delayed. Of the 150 patients, 129 (86%) were spared hospital admission, and no increased morbidity or mortality could be associated with our policy of selective hospital admission.

References (7)

There are more references available in the full text version of this article.

Cited by (26)

  • Prospective evaluation of an ED observation unit protocol for trauma activation patients

    2012, American Journal of Emergency Medicine
    Citation Excerpt :

    We previously reported that EDOUs are appropriate for minimally injured trauma activation patients[6]. There have been small studies reporting observation unit admission of specific groups of trauma patients [7-10]. No prospective studies have reported on the use of EDOUs for all types of trauma patients.

  • Serial hematocrit testing does not identify major injuries in trauma patients in an observation unit

    2010, American Journal of Emergency Medicine
    Citation Excerpt :

    Several studies have shown the benefit of ED observation units in evaluating and risk-stratifying patients such as those with chest pain and transient ischemic attack, and treating dehydration and asthma [3-8]. Additional smaller studies have reported their use for the evaluation of trauma patients [9,10]. Because of the relative paucity of data regarding appropriate use of an observation unit for trauma patients, further research is needed to identify appropriate trauma patients for an observation unit and appropriate testing to be performed during this observation unit stay.

  • Management of traumatically injured patients in the emergency department observation unit

    2001, Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America
    Citation Excerpt :

    It can also help in elucidating the diagnosis of injuries that present with late signs and symptoms, such as hollow viscus injuries. Another study looked at the use of an EDOU for thoracic trauma.3 Of 150 patients observed, only 18 ultimately required admission to the hospital.

  • Observation medicine curriculum

    1992, Annals of Emergency Medicine
View all citing articles on Scopus
View full text