1
|
Doan T, Howell S, Ball S, Finn J, Cameron P, Bosley E, Dicker B, Faddy S, Nehme Z, Heriot N, Swain A, Thorrowgood M, Thomas A, Perillo S, McDermott M, Smith T, Smith K, Belcher J, Bray J. Identifying areas of Australia with high out-of-hospital cardiac arrest incidence and low bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation rates: A retrospective, observational study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301176. [PMID: 38652707 PMCID: PMC11037527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aims to explore regional variation and identify regions within Australia with high incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and low rates of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). METHOD Adult OHCAs of presumed medical aetiology occurring across Australia between 2017 and 2019 were mapped onto local government areas (LGA) using the location of arrest coordinates. Bayesian spatial models were applied to provide "smoothed" estimates of OHCA incidence and bystander CPR rates (for bystander-witnessed OHCAs) for each LGA. For each state and territory, high-risk LGAs were defined as those with an incidence rate greater than the state or territory's 75th percentile and a bystander CPR rate less than the state or territory's 25th percentile. RESULTS A total of 62,579 OHCA cases attended by emergency medical services across 543 LGAs nationwide were included in the study. Nationally, the OHCA incidence rate across LGA ranged from 58.5 to 198.3 persons per 100,000, while bystander CPR rates ranged from 45% to 75%. We identified 60 high-risk LGAs, which were predominantly located in the state of New South Wales. Within each region, high-risk LGAs were typically located in regional and remote areas of the country, except for four metropolitan areas-two in Adelaide and two in Perth. CONCLUSIONS We have identified high-risk LGAs, characterised by high incidence and low bystander CPR rates, which are predominantly in regional and remote areas of Australia. Strategies for reducing OHCA and improving bystander response may be best targeted at these regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tan Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stuart Howell
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Ball
- Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
- St John Western Australia, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Judith Finn
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
- St John Western Australia, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Cameron
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Emergency and Trauma Centre, The Alfred, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane City, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bridget Dicker
- Hato Hone St John New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Steven Faddy
- NSW Ambulance, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ziad Nehme
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Ambulance Victoria, Doncaster, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Andy Swain
- Wellington Free Ambulance, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Andrew Thomas
- St John Ambulance NT, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Samuel Perillo
- ACT Ambulance, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | | | - Tony Smith
- Hato Hone St John New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Karen Smith
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Research and Innovation, Silverchain, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason Belcher
- St John Western Australia, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Janet Bray
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wittenhagen L, Hielscher E, Meurk CS, Scott JG, Steele ML, Bosley E, Watson S, Heffernan E. A cohort profile of children and adolescents who had a suicide-related contact with police or paramedics in Queensland (Australia). Emerg Med Australas 2024. [PMID: 38495001 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.14392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Suicide is a leading cause of death in children and adolescents worldwide and a major public health concern. While suicidal behaviours place a significant demand on mental health and emergency services, data regarding suicide-related contacts with police and paramedics are an underutilised resource. The aim of the present study was to identify the demographic profile of young individuals (aged 5-17) and had a suicide-related contact with police or paramedics in Queensland (Australia). METHODS The present study utilised a population-wide linked dataset, including data from police and paramedics and health administrative data, between 1 February 2013 and 31 January 2018. RESULTS The identified cohort of 7929 children had a median age of 15 years and mainly comprised females (63.2%). Over the study period, 64 children died, most by suicide (76.6%). Less than a third of the cohort were responsible for almost two-thirds of the total number of contacts with police or paramedics. CONCLUSION Findings provide a comprehensive profile of children and adolescents in suicidal crisis and highlight the substantial number of interactions that occur with police and paramedics. Due to the way the linked dataset was constructed, it must be assumed that the number of young persons in suicidal crisis is higher. Findings highlight the value of considering pre-hospital alternatives to presenting to emergency departments (EDs) for this cohort, to reduce impost on EDs and improve outcomes. Further examination of re-presentations by young persons is warranted to inform prevention and intervention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Wittenhagen
- School of Public Health: Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emily Hielscher
- Child and Youth Mental Health Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Carla S Meurk
- School of Public Health: Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
| | - James G Scott
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
- Child and Youth Mental Health Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Child and Youth Mental Health Service, Children's Health Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Megan L Steele
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Shelby Watson
- State Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command, Queensland Police Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ed Heffernan
- School of Public Health: Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Mental Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Samadbeik M, Staib A, Boyle J, Khanna S, Bosley E, Bodnar D, Lind J, Austin JA, Tanner S, Meshkat Y, de Courten B, Sullivan C. Patient flow in emergency departments: a comprehensive umbrella review of solutions and challenges across the health system. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:274. [PMID: 38443894 PMCID: PMC10913567 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10725-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, emergency departments (EDs) are overcrowded and unable to meet an ever-increasing demand for care. The aim of this study is to comprehensively review and synthesise literature on potential solutions and challenges throughout the entire health system, focusing on ED patient flow. METHODS An umbrella review was conducted to comprehensively summarise and synthesise the available evidence from multiple research syntheses. A comprehensive search strategy was employed in four databases alongside government or organisational websites in March 2023. Gray literature and reports were also searched. Quality was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal checklist for systematic reviews and research syntheses. We summarised and classified findings using qualitative synthesis, the Population-Capacity-Process (PCP) model, and the input/throughput/output (I/T/O) model of ED patient flow and synthesised intervention outcomes based on the Quadruple Aim framework. RESULTS The search strategy yielded 1263 articles, of which 39 were included in the umbrella review. Patient flow interventions were categorised into human factors, management-organisation interventions, and infrastructure and mapped to the relevant component of the patient journey from pre-ED to post-ED interventions. Most interventions had mixed or quadruple nonsignificant outcomes. The majority of interventions for enhancing ED patient flow were primarily related to the 'within-ED' phase of the patient journey. Fewer interventions were identified for the 'post-ED' phase (acute inpatient transfer, subacute inpatient transfer, hospital at home, discharge home, or residential care) and the 'pre-ED' phase. The intervention outcomes were aligned with the aim (QAIM), which aims to improve patient care experience, enhance population health, optimise efficiency, and enhance staff satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS This study found that there was a wide range of interventions used to address patient flow, but the effectiveness of these interventions varied, and most interventions were focused on the ED. Interventions for the remainder of the patient journey were largely neglected. The metrics reported were mainly focused on efficiency measures rather than addressing all quadrants of the quadruple aim. Further research is needed to investigate and enhance the effectiveness of interventions outside the ED in improving ED patient flow. It is essential to develop interventions that relate to all three phases of patient flow: pre-ED, within-ED, and post-ED.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Samadbeik
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine, Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Andrew Staib
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Justin Boyle
- The Australian E-Health Research Centre, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sankalp Khanna
- The Australian E-Health Research Centre, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Daniel Bodnar
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government, Brisbane, Australia
| | - James Lind
- Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Jodie A Austin
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Sarah Tanner
- Faculty of Medicine, Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Yasaman Meshkat
- Faculty of Medicine, Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Barbora de Courten
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Clair Sullivan
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
- Department of Health, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bourke-Matas E, Bosley E, Smith K, Meadley B, Bowles KA. Developing a consensus-based definition of out-of-hospital clinical deterioration: A Delphi study. Aust Crit Care 2024; 37:318-325. [PMID: 37537124 DOI: 10.1016/j.aucc.2023.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical deterioration is a time-critical medical emergency requiring rapid recognition and intervention. Deteriorating patients are seen across various healthcare settings, including the out-of-hospital (OOH) environment. OOH care is an evolving area of medicine where decisions are made regarding priority and timing of clinical interventions, ongoing management, and transport to appropriate care. To date, the literature lacks a standardised definition of OOH clinical deterioration. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to create a consensus-based definition of OOH clinical deterioration informed by emergency medicine health professionals. METHODS A Delphi study consisting three rounds was conducted electronically between June 2020 and January 2021. The expert panel consisted of 30 clinicians, including emergency physicians and paramedics. RESULTS A consensus-based definition of OOH clinical deterioration was identified as changes from a patient's baseline physiological status resulting in their condition worsening. These changes primarily take the form of measurable vital signs and assessable symptoms but should be evaluated in conjunction with the history of events and pertinent risk factors. Clinicians should be suspicious that a patient could deteriorate when changes occur in one or more of the following vital signs: respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, Glasgow Coma Scale, oxygen saturation, electrocardiogram, and skin colour. Almost all participants (92%) indicated an early warning system would be helpful to assist timely recognition of deteriorating patients. CONCLUSION The creation of a consensus-based definition of OOH clinical deterioration can serve as a starting point for the development and validation of OOH-specific early warning systems. Moreover, a standardised definition allows meaningful comparisons to be made across health services and ensures consistency in future research. This study has shown recognition of OOH clinical deterioration to be a complex issue requiring further research. Improving our understanding of key factors contributing to deterioration can assist timely recognition and intervention, potentially reducing unnecessary morbidity and mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Bourke-Matas
- Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, McMahons Rd, Frankston, Victoria, 3199, Australia; Queensland Ambulance Service, Department of Health, Emergency Services Complex, Cnr Park and Kedron Park Rds, Kedron, Queensland, 4031, Australia.
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Department of Health, Emergency Services Complex, Cnr Park and Kedron Park Rds, Kedron, Queensland, 4031, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, McMahons Rd, Frankston, Victoria, 3199, Australia; Ambulance Victoria Centre for Research and Evaluation, 31 Joseph Street, Blackburn North, Victoria, 3130, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Prahran, Victoria, 3181, Australia
| | - Ben Meadley
- Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, McMahons Rd, Frankston, Victoria, 3199, Australia; Ambulance Victoria Centre for Research and Evaluation, 31 Joseph Street, Blackburn North, Victoria, 3130, Australia
| | - Kelly-Ann Bowles
- Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, McMahons Rd, Frankston, Victoria, 3199, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bodnar D, Bosley E, Raven S, Williams S, Ryan G, Wullschleger M, Lam AK. The nature and timing of coagulation dysfunction in a cohort of trauma patients in the Australian pre-hospital setting. Injury 2024; 55:111124. [PMID: 37858445 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2023.111124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute Traumatic Coagulopathy (ATC) is a complex pathological process that is associated with patient mortality and increased blood transfusion requirements. It is evident on hospital arrival, but there is a paucity of information about the nature of ATC and the characteristics of patients that develop ATC in the pre-hospital setting. The objective of this study was to describe the nature and timing of coagulation dysfunction in a cohort of injured patients and to report on patient and pre-hospital factors associated with the development of ATC in the field. METHODS This was a prospective observational study of a convenience sample of trauma patients. Patients had blood taken during the pre-hospital phase of care and evaluated for derangements in Conventional Coagulation Assays (CCA) and Rotational Thromboelastometry (ROTEM). Associations between coagulation derangement and pre-hospital factors and patient outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 216 patients who had either a complete CCA or ROTEM were included in the analysis. One hundred and eighty (83 %) of patients were male, with a median injury severity score of 17 [interquartile range (IQR) 10-27] and median age of 34 years [IQR = 25.0-52.0]. Hypofibrinogenemia was the predominant abnormality seen, (CCA Hypofibrinogenemia: 51/193, 26 %; ROTEM hypofibrinogenemia: 65/204, 32 %). Increased CCA derangement, the presence of ROTEM coagulopathy, worsening INR, worsening FibTEM and decreasing fibrinogen concentration, were all associated with both mortality and early massive transfusion. CONCLUSION Clinically significant, multifaceted coagulopathy develops early in the clinical course, with hypofibrinogenemia being the predominant coagulopathy. In keeping with the ED literature, pre-hospital coagulation dysfunction was associated with mortality and early massive transfusion. Further work is required to identify strategies to identify and guide the pre-hospital management of the coagulation dysfunction seen in trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bodnar
- Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia; School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia; Emergency and Trauma Centre, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Australia; Emergency Department, Queensland Children's Hospital, South Brisbane, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Emma Bosley
- Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Steven Raven
- Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sue Williams
- Pathology Queensland Central Transfusion Laboratory, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Australia
| | - Glenn Ryan
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Emergency Department, The Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Australia
| | - Martin Wullschleger
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia; Trauma Service, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Alfred K Lam
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Pathology Queensland, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fisher OJ, Donahoo C, Bosley E, du Cloux R, Garner S, Powell S, Pickard J, Grevis-James N, Wyder M. Barriers and enablers to implementing police mental health co-responder programs: A qualitative study using the consolidated framework for implementation research. Implement Res Pract 2024; 5:26334895231220259. [PMID: 38322801 PMCID: PMC10775732 DOI: 10.1177/26334895231220259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Police and mental health co-responder programs operate internationally and can be effective in providing timely and appropriate assessment, brief intervention, and referral services for people experiencing mental health crises. However, these models vary greatly, and little is known about how the design and implementation of these programs impacts their effectiveness. Method This study was a qualitative, post hoc implementation determinant evaluation of mental health co-responder units in Brisbane, Australia, comprising of verbal or written interviews with police and mental health staff with an on-road role in the co-responder units, and their managers. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used to identify barriers and enablers to the program's implementation and effectiveness. Results Participants (n = 30) from all groups felt strongly that the co-responder units are a substantial improvement over the usual police management of mental health crisis cases, and lead to better outcomes for consumers and the service. Enablers included an information-sharing agreement; the Mental Health Co-Responder (MHCORE) program's compatibility with existing police and mental health services; and the learning opportunity for both organizations. Barriers included cultural differences between the organizations, particularly risk-aversion to suicidality for police and a focus on least-restrictive practices for health; extensive documentation requirements for health; and a lack of specific mental health training for police. Conclusions Using an evidence-based implementation science framework enabled identification of a broad range of contextual barriers and enablers to implementation of police mental health co-responder programs. Adapting the program to address these barriers and enablers during the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation phases increases the likelihood of the service's effectiveness. These findings will inform the spread and scale of the co-responder program across Queensland, and will be relevant to police districts internationally considering implementing a co-responder program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O. J. Fisher
- Health Services Research, Wesley Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Implementation Support, Research and Evaluation Unit, Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Charles Darwin University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - C. Donahoo
- Implementation Support, Research and Evaluation Unit, Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - E. Bosley
- Implementation Support, Research and Evaluation Unit, Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - R. du Cloux
- State Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command, Queensland Police Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - S. Garner
- Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - S. Powell
- Addiction and Mental Health Service, Metro South Health, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - J. Pickard
- State Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command, Queensland Police Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - N. Grevis-James
- State Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command, Queensland Police Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - M. Wyder
- Addiction and Mental Health Service, Metro South Health, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nehme Z, Cameron P, Nehme E, Finn J, Bosley E, Brink D, Ball S, Doan TN, Bray JE. Effect of a national awareness campaign on ambulance attendances for chest pain and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Resuscitation 2023; 191:109932. [PMID: 37562665 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2023.109932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
AIM Awareness of heart attack symptoms may enhance health-seeking behaviour and prevent premature deaths from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). We sought to investigate the impact of a national awareness campaign on emergency medical service (EMS) attendances for chest pain and OHCA. METHODS Between January 2005 and December 2017, we included registry data for 97,860 EMS-attended OHCA cases from 3 Australian regions and dispatch data for 1,631,217 EMS attendances for chest pain across 5 Australian regions. Regions were exposed to between 11 and 28 months of television, radio, and print media activity. Multivariable negative binomial models were used to explore the effect of campaign activity on the monthly incidence of EMS attendances for chest pain and OHCA. RESULTS Months with campaign activity were associated with an 8.8% (IRR 1.09, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.11) increase in the incidence of EMS attendances for chest pain and a 5.6% (IRR 0.94, 95% CI: 0.92, 0.97) reduction in OHCA attendances. Larger intervention effects were associated with increasing months of campaign activity, increasing monthly media spending and media exposure in 2013. In stratified analyses of OHCA cases, the largest reduction in incidence during campaign months was observed for unwitnessed arrests (IRR 0.93, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.96), initial non-shockable arrests (IRR 0.93, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.97) and arrests occurring in private residences (IRR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.91, 0.98). CONCLUSION A national awareness campaign targeting knowledge of heart attack symptoms was associated with an increase in EMS use for chest pain and a reduction in OHCA incidence and may serve as an effective primary prevention strategy for OHCA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziad Nehme
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Research and Evaluation,Ambulance Victoria, Blackburn North, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paramedicine, Monash University, Frankston, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Peter Cameron
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Alfred Hospital,Alfred Health, Prahran, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emily Nehme
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Research and Evaluation,Ambulance Victoria, Blackburn North, Victoria, Australia
| | - Judith Finn
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; PRECRU, School of Nursing, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; St John Ambulance, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Deon Brink
- PRECRU, School of Nursing, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; St John Ambulance, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Stephen Ball
- PRECRU, School of Nursing, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; St John Ambulance, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Tan N Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Department of Medicine at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Janet E Bray
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; PRECRU, School of Nursing, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Schultz BV, Watt K, Rashford S, Wylie J, Bosley E. Epidemiology of open limb fractures attended by ambulance clinicians in the out-of-hospital setting: A retrospective analysis. Australas Emerg Care 2023; 26:216-220. [PMID: 36621412 DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Open limb fractures are a time-critical orthopaedic emergency that present to jurisdictional ambulance services. This study describes the demographic characteristics and epidemiological profile of these patients METHODS: We undertook a retrospective analysis of all patients that presented to Queensland Ambulance Service with an open limb fracture (fracture to the humerus, radius/ulna, tibia/fibula or femur) over a two-year period (January 2018 - December 2019). RESULTS Overall, 1020 patients were included. Patients were mainly male (65.9%) and middle-aged (age 41 years, IQR 22-59). Fractures predominately occurred in the lower extremities (64.9%) with transport crashes the primary mechanism of injury (47.8%). The location of the fracture varied depending on the cause of injury, with femur fractures associated with motorcycle crashes, and fractures to the radius/ulna attributed to falls of greater than one metre (p = 0.001). The median prehospital episode of care was 83 min (IQR 62-144) with aeromedical air ambulance involvement and the attendance of a critical care paramedic or emergency physician, both independent factors that increased this time interval. CONCLUSION Open limb fractures are a relatively infrequent injury presentation encountered by ambulance clinicians. The characteristics of these patients is consistent with previously described national and international out-of-hospital trauma cohorts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brendan V Schultz
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Kerrianne Watt
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD Australia
| | - Stephen Rashford
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - James Wylie
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Doan TN, Rashford S, Sims L, Wilson K, Garner S, Bosley E. Suicide-Related Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrests in Queensland, Australia: Temporal Trends of Characteristics and Outcomes over 14 Years. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2023; 28:431-437. [PMID: 37364032 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2023.2230595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research into suicide-related out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) using OHCA registries is scant. A more complete understanding of methods, patient characteristics, and outcomes is essential to inform prehospital management strategies and public health interventions. METHODS Included were all OHCA attended by Queensland Ambulance Service (Australia) paramedics between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2020, where suicide-related causes could be identified. Age- and sex-standardized incidence rates were calculated. Suicide methods, patient characteristics, and survival outcomes were described. Factors associated with survival outcomes were investigated. RESULTS Seven thousand three hundred and fifty-six suicide-related OHCA cases were included. The incidence rates increased from 9.0 per 100,000 population in 2007 to 12.4 in 2020. The incidence rates for males were four times those for females; however, incidence rates for females have increased faster than for males. Hanging was the most common suicide method (63%). Twenty-three percent of patients received resuscitation attempts by paramedics. Among those, the rates of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) sustained to hospital arrival, survival to hospital discharge, and survival to 30 days were 28.6, 8.5, and 8.0%, respectively. Over time, the rates of ROSC upon hospital arrival increased, whereas the rates of survival to discharge and 30-day survival remained stable. CONCLUSION The incidence of prehospital-identified suicide-related OHCA in Queensland has increased over time. The prognosis of suicide-related OHCA is poor. Prevention measures should focus on early identification and treatment of individuals having a high risk of suicide. Emergency medical services need to have sufficient training for telecommunicators and paramedics in suicide risk assessment and identification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tan N Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Stephen Rashford
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Louise Sims
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kirsten Wilson
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sandra Garner
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Howell S, Smith K, Finn J, Cameron P, Ball S, Bosley E, Doan T, Dicker B, Faddy S, Nehme Z, Swain A, Thorrowgood M, Thomas A, Perillo S, McDermott M, Smith T, Bray J. The development of a risk-adjustment strategy to benchmark emergency medical service (EMS) performance in relation to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Australia and New Zealand. Resuscitation 2023:109847. [PMID: 37211232 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2023.109847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to develop a risk adjustment strategy, including effect modifiers, for benchmarking emergency medical service (EMS) performance for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in Australia and New Zealand. METHOD Using 2017-2019 data from the Australasian Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium (Aus-ROC) OHCA Epistry, we included adults who received an EMS attempted resuscitation for a presumed medical OHCA. Logistic regression was applied to develop risk adjustment models for event survival (return of spontaneous circulation at hospital handover) and survival to hospital discharge/30 days. We examined potential effect modifiers, and assessed model discrimination and validity. RESULTS Both OHCA survival outcome models included EMS agency and the Utstein variables (age, sex, location of arrest, witnessed arrest, initial rhythm, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation, defibrillation prior to EMS arrival, and EMS response time). The model for event survival had good discrimination according to the concordance statistic (0.77) and explained 28% of the variation in survival. The corresponding figures for survival to hospital discharge/30 days were 0.87 and 49%. The addition of effect modifiers did little to improve the performance of either model. CONCLUSION The development of risk adjustment models with good discrimination is an important step in benchmarking EMS performance for OHCA. The Utstein variables are important in risk-adjustment, but only explain a small proportion of the variation in survival. Further research is required to understand what factors contribute to the variation in survival between EMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stuart Howell
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paramedicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Judith Finn
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; St John Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Cameron
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Emergency and Trauma Centre, The Alfred, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Ball
- Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; St John Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tan Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bridget Dicker
- St John New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand; Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Ziad Nehme
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Ambulance Victoria, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Tony Smith
- St John New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Janet Bray
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mason HM, King JC, Peden AE, Watt K, Bosley E, Fitzgerald G, Nairn J, Miller L, Mandalios N, Franklin RC. Determining the Impact of Heatwaves on Emergency Ambulance Calls in Queensland: A Retrospective Population-Based Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:ijerph20064875. [PMID: 36981787 PMCID: PMC10049657 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Heatwaves are a significant and growing threat to the health and well-being of the residents of Queensland, Australia. This threat is increasing due to climate change. Excess heat increases the demand for health services, including ambulance calls, and the purpose of this study was to explore this impact across Queensland. A state-wide retrospective analysis of heatwaves and emergency 'Triple Zero' (000) calls to Queensland Ambulance (QAS) from 2010-2019 was undertaken. Call data from the QAS and heatwave data from the Bureau of Meteorology were analysed using a case-crossover approach at the postcode level. Ambulance calls increased by 12.68% during heatwaves. The effect was greatest during low-severity heatwaves (22.16%), followed by severe (14.32%) and extreme heatwaves (1.16%). The impact varied by rurality, with those living in very remote areas and major cities most impacted, along with those of low and middle socioeconomic status during low and severe intensity heat events. Lag effects post-heatwave continued for at least 10 days. Heatwaves significantly increase ambulance call centre workload, so ambulance services must actively prepare resources and personnel to address increases in heatwave frequency, duration, and severity. Communities must be informed of the risks of heatwaves at all severities, particularly low severity, and the sustained risks in the days following a heat event.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M. Mason
- Discipline of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Jemma C. King
- Discipline of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Amy E. Peden
- Discipline of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Kerrianne Watt
- Discipline of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, QLD 4031, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, QLD 4031, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Gerard Fitzgerald
- Discipline of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - John Nairn
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Lauren Miller
- Discipline of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Nicole Mandalios
- Disaster Management Branch, Queensland Health, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Richard C. Franklin
- Discipline of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bourke-Matas E, Bosley E, Smith K, Meadley B, Bowles KA. Challenges to recognising patients at risk of out-of-hospital clinical deterioration. Australas Emerg Care 2023; 26:24-29. [PMID: 35851506 DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The acute derangement of physiological function is a time-critical medical emergency requiring prompt recognition. As autonomous practitioners in resource scarce, high-risk environments, clinical deterioration can impose complex and increased clinical demands on paramedics. Early recognition is imperative to facilitating proactive responses to mitigate adverse effects. This study aimed to determine if clinicians can meet consensus regarding meaningful clinical factors for recognising to out-of-hospital (OOH) clinical deterioration risk. METHODS A three-round electronic Delphi study was conducted between June 2020 and January 2021. The expert panel was composed of 30 clinicians, including paramedics and emergency physicians. Participants were presented with eight clinically diverse case vignettes addressing various clinical factors related to OOH clinical deterioration. RESULTS Participants identified various challenges related to the recognition of OOH clinical deterioration. Although participants were able to meet consensus on most clinical factors related to deterioration, consensus was not achieved where cases had a combination of factors including: medical aetiology, subtle vital sign changes, non-specific complaints, age-extreme patients, and presence of co-morbidities. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that clinicians face various challenges to recognising clinical deterioration in the OOH setting. Better understanding these challenging patient cohorts could assist to increase awareness and improve early recognition of OOH clinical deterioration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Bourke-Matas
- Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, McMahons Rd, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia; Queensland Ambulance Service, Department of Health, Emergency Services Complex, Cnr Park and Kedron Park Rds, Kedron, Queensland 4031, Australia.
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Department of Health, Emergency Services Complex, Cnr Park and Kedron Park Rds, Kedron, Queensland 4031, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, McMahons Rd, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia; Ambulance Victoria Centre for Research and Evaluation, 31 Joseph Street, Blackburn North, Victoria 3130, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Prahran, Victoria 3181, Australia
| | - Ben Meadley
- Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, McMahons Rd, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia; Ambulance Victoria Centre for Research and Evaluation, 31 Joseph Street, Blackburn North, Victoria 3130, Australia
| | - Kelly-Ann Bowles
- Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, McMahons Rd, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Meurk C, Roberts S, Lam M, Wittenhagen L, Callaway L, Moss K, Lucke J, Barker R, Waterson E, Rawlinson C, Malmstrom N, Weaver E, Hoehn E, Bosley E, Watson S, Heffernan E. Suicide crises among women and mothers during and around the time of pregnancy: Prevalence and timing of initial contact with first responders and health services. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2023; 57:291-301. [PMID: 35652302 DOI: 10.1177/00048674221101517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Suicide is a leading cause of maternal mortality. Suicidality during and around the time of pregnancy can have detrimental impacts on a child's development and outcomes. This paper examines prevalence, demographic characteristics, and timing of initial contact with first responders and health services for a cohort of women who experienced suicidality during and around the time of pregnancy. METHODS Findings are drawn from the Partners in Prevention (PiP) study, a population-wide linked data set of suicide-related attendances by police or paramedics in Queensland, Australia. A sub-cohort of women was identified, who were between 6 months preconception and 2 years postpartum at the time of a suicide-related contact with police or paramedics (PiP-Maternal). Findings are compared to other girls and women who had a suicide-related contact with police or paramedics (PiP-Female). Prevalence, demographic characteristics, timing of contact with first responders and health services, re-presentations, and mortality are reported. RESULTS The PiP-Maternal cohort comprised 3020 individuals and 3400 births. Women in the PiP-Maternal cohort were younger, more likely to be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent and live outside of a major city than the PiP-Female cohort. There were high rates of out-of-hours calls to police and ambulance, and similar perceived seriousness of the call between women in the PiP-Maternal and PiP-Female cohorts. Women in the PiP-Maternal cohort were less likely to be admitted to an emergency department within 24 hours, even after matching on covariates. Prevalence of suicidality for women who were pregnant and up to 2 years postpartum was 1.32% (95% CI = [1.27, 1.37]). CONCLUSION Vulnerabilities and high rates of contact with police or paramedics, coupled with lower levels of follow-up, highlight the critical need to improve service responses for women with mental health needs during these phases of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Meurk
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Queensland Health, West Moreton Hospital and Health Service, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Susan Roberts
- Lavender Mother and Baby Unit, Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - Michael Lam
- Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lisa Wittenhagen
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Queensland Health, West Moreton Hospital and Health Service, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Leonie Callaway
- Royal Brisbane Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Obstetric Medicine, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Katherine Moss
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Queensland Health, West Moreton Hospital and Health Service, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jayne Lucke
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ruth Barker
- Queensland Children's Hospital, Queensland Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Injury Surveillance Unit, Jamieson Trauma Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Elissa Waterson
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Queensland Health, West Moreton Hospital and Health Service, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Catherine Rawlinson
- Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Edward Weaver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology/Women's and Children's, Griffith University School of Medicine and Dentistry, Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Elisabeth Hoehn
- Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Information Support, Research and Evaluation, Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Kedron, QLD, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Shelby Watson
- State Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, Vulnerable Persons Group, Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command, Queensland Police Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ed Heffernan
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Queensland Health, West Moreton Hospital and Health Service, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bunting D, Endo T, Watt K, Daniel R, Bosley E. Mastering Linked Datasets: The Future of Emergency Health Care Research. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2022; 27:1031-1040. [PMID: 35913099 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2022.2108179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this work is to describe routine integration of prehospital emergency health records into a health master linkage file, delivering ongoing access to integrated patient treatment and outcome information for ambulance-attended patients in Queensland.Methods: The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) data are integrated monthly into the Queensland Health Master Linkage File (MLF) using a linkage algorithm that relies on probabilistic matches in combination with deterministic rules based on patient demographic details, date, time and facility identifiers. Each ambulance record is assigned an enduring linkage key (unique patient identifier) and further processing determines whether each record matches with a corresponding hospital emergency department, admission or death registry record. In this study, all QAS electronic ambulance report form (eARF) records from October 2016 to December 2018 where at least 1 key linkage variable was present (n = 1,771,734) were integrated into the MLF.Results: The majority of records (n = 1,456,502; 82.2%) were for transported patients, and 90.1% (n = 1,312,176) of these transports were to public hospital facilities. Of these transport records, 93.9% (n = 1,231,951) matched to emergency department (ED) records and 59.3% (n = 864,394) also linked to admitted patient records. Of ambulance non-transport records integrated into the MLF, 23.6% (n = 74,311) matched with ED records.Conclusion: This study demonstrates robust linkage methods, quality assurance processes and high linkage rates of data across the continuum of care (prehospital/emergency department/admitted patient/death) in Queensland. The resulting infrastructure provides a high-quality linked dataset that facilitates complex research and analysis to inform critical functions such as quality improvement, system evaluation and design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denise Bunting
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Taku Endo
- Queensland Health, Preventive Health Branch, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kerrianne Watt
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Raymond Daniel
- Queensland Health, Statistical Services Branch, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Savage ML, Hay K, Murdoch DJ, Doan T, Bosley E, Walters DL, Denman R, Ranasinghe I, Raffel OC. Clinical Outcomes in Pre-Hospital Activation and Direct Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory Transfer of STEMI for Primary PCI. Heart Lung Circ 2022; 31:974-984. [PMID: 35227611 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2022.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-hospital activation and direct cardiac catheterisation laboratory (CCL) transfer of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has previously been shown to improve door-to-balloon (DTB) times yet there is limited outcome data in the Australian context. We aimed to assess the impact of pre-hospital activation on STEMI performance measures and mortality. METHODS Prospective cohort study of consecutive ambulance transported STEMI patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) patients over a 10-year period (1 January 2008-31 December 2017) at The Prince Charles Hospital, a large quaternary referral centre in Brisbane, Queensland Australia. Comparisons were performed between patients who underwent pre-hospital CCL activation and patients who did not. STEMI performance measures, 30-day and 1-year mortality were examined. RESULTS Amongst 1,009 patients included (mean age: 62.8 yrs±12.6), pre-hospital activation increased over time (26.6% in 2008 to 75.0% in 2017, p<0.001). Median DTB time (35 mins vs 76 mins p<0.001) and percentage meeting targets (DTB<60 mins 92% vs 27%, p<0.001) improved significantly with pre-hospital activation. Pre-hospital activation was associated with significantly lower 30-day (1.0% vs 3.5%, p=0.007) and 1-year (1.2% vs 7.7%, p<0.001) mortality. After adjusting for confounders and mediators, we observed a strong total effect of pre-hospital activation on 1-year mortality (OR 5.3, 95%CI 2.2-12.4, p<0.001) compared to patients who did not have pre-hospital activation. False positive rates were 3.7% with pre-hospital activation. CONCLUSION In patients who underwent primary PCI for STEMI, pre-hospital activation and direct CCL transfer is associated with low false positive rates, significantly reduced time to reperfusion and lower 30-day and 1-year mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Savage
- Cardiology Department, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.
| | - Karen Hay
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Dale J Murdoch
- Cardiology Department, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Tan Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Darren L Walters
- Cardiology Department, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Russell Denman
- Cardiology Department, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Isuru Ranasinghe
- Cardiology Department, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Owen Christopher Raffel
- Cardiology Department, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Irvine R, Doan T, Bosley E, Colbeck M, Bowles KA. Paediatric Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrests: An Epidemiological Study. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2022:1-10. [PMID: 35771687 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2022.2096159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To identify the epidemiological patterns of paediatric out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) in Queensland, Australia and to investigate associations between patient variables and prehospital outcome.Methods: Included were paediatric (>4 days - 18 years) OHCA patients attended by paramedics in the state of Queensland (Australia) between January 2009 and December 2019. Patient and arrest characteristics were described. Factors associated with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) on hospital arrival were investigated.Results: A total of 1612 paediatric patients were included; 611 were deceased prior to paramedic arrival and 1001 received resuscitation attempts by paramedics. Approximately one quarter (26.8%) of resuscitation-attempted patients achieved ROSC on hospital arrival. Most arrests (49.7%) were due to medical causes. Arrests due to trauma had the lowest rate of ROSC on hospital arrival (9.6%), whereas those due to drug overdose had the highest rate (40%). Patients in rural areas had a lower rate of ROSC on hospital arrival than those in metropolitan areas (20.7% vs 32.5%, p < 0.001). The median response interval to all OHCA patients was 8 minutes. Trauma was considerably more prevalent in rural areas than in metropolitan areas, while all other aetiologies were comparable. Older paediatric age groups had higher rates of ROSC on hospital arrival than infants, particularly early adolescents (39.4% vs. 14.9%, p = 0.001). Aetiology, age, bystander witness, shockable initial rhythm, and geographic locality factors were independently associated with ROSC on hospital arrival.Conclusions: Approximately a quarter of paediatric prehospital OHCA achieved ROSC on hospital arrival. Prehospital outcome differs according to patient cohort and is associated with diverse patient demographic variables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Irvine
- Department of Paramedicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tan Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Marc Colbeck
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Banyo, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kelly-Ann Bowles
- Department of Paramedicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Meurk C, Wittenhagen L, Bosley E, Steele ML, Bunting D, Waterson E, Edwards B, Martain B, Heffernan E. Suicide crisis calls to emergency services: Cohort profile and findings from a data linkage study in Queensland, Australia. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2022; 56:144-153. [PMID: 33904321 DOI: 10.1177/00048674211009604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Police and paramedics play a crucial role in responding to suicide crises in the community. However, little is known about the nature, extent, precipitating factors, pathways and outcomes of a suicide-related call to emergency services and what responses will most effectively and compassionately meet the needs of those in crisis. Partners in Prevention: Understanding and Enhancing First Responses to Suicide Crisis Situations (PiP) was established to address these knowledge gaps. METHODS This article describes (1) the methodology used to construct the PiP dataset, a population-wide linked dataset that investigates the characteristics and health pathways of individuals in Queensland who were the subject of a suicide-related call to police or paramedics; and (2) preliminary findings on service demand, demographics and health services utilisation. RESULTS We identified 219,164 suicide-related calls to Queensland Police Service or Queensland Ambulance Service that were made over the 3-year period 1 February 2014 to 31 January 2017. A total of 70,893 individuals were identifiable via records linkage. The cohort linked to more than 7,000,000 health records. We estimated that police or paramedics in Queensland received on average 209 calls per day, with increases year on year over the study period. Analysis of demographic data highlighted the heterogeneous nature of this cohort and important demographic variations between individuals in contact with police versus ambulance services. DISCUSSION The PiP dataset provides a strong foundation for a multi-modal dataset that can be built on over time, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Further linkages to Medicare Benefits Schedule, Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and social care datasets are planned. CONCLUSION Detailed population-level analysis that data linkage can provide is critical to improving understanding and responses to suicide crisis situations. The PiP study is a world first and provides a unique opportunity to improve responses to this public health problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Meurk
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lisa Wittenhagen
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Kedron, QLD, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Megan L Steele
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, QLD, Australia
| | - Denise Bunting
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Kedron, QLD, Australia
| | - Elissa Waterson
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Ben Martain
- Queensland Police Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ed Heffernan
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bray J, Howell S, Ball S, Doan T, Bosley E, Smith K, Dicker B, Faddy S, Thorrowgood M, Swain A, Thomas A, Wilson A, Shipp C, Walker T, Bailey P, Finn J. The epidemiology of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Australia and New Zealand: A binational report from the Australasian Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium (Aus-ROC). Resuscitation 2022; 172:74-83. [PMID: 35077857 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2022.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Australasian Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium (Aus-ROC) out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) Epistry (Epidemiological Registry) now covers 100% of Australia and New Zealand (NZ). This study reports and compares the Utstein demographics, arrest characteristics and outcomes of OHCA patients across our region. METHODS We included all OHCA cases throughout 2019 as submitted to the Epistry by the eight Australian and two NZ emergency medical services (EMS). We calculated crude and age-standardised incidence rates and performed a national and EMS regional comparison. RESULTS We obtained data for 31,778 OHCA cases for 2019: 26,637 in Australia and 5,141 in NZ. Crude incidence was 107.9 per 100,000 person-years in Australia and 103.2/100,000 in NZ. Overall, the majority of OHCAs occurred in adults (96%), males (66%), private residences (76%), were unwitnessed (63%), of presumed medical aetiology (83%), and had an initial monitored rhythm of asystole (64%). In non-EMS-witnessed cases, 38% received bystander CPR and 2% received public defibrillation. Wide variation was seen between EMS regions for all OHCA demographics, arrest characteristics and outcomes. In patients who received an EMS-attempted resuscitation (13,664/31,778): 28% (range across EMS=13.1% to 36.7%) had return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) at hospital arrival and 13% (range across EMS=9.9% to 20.7%) survived to hospital discharge/30-days. Survival in the Utstein comparator group (bystander-witnessed in shockable rhythm) varied across the EMS regions between 27.4% to 42.0%. CONCLUSION OHCA across Australia and NZ has varied incidence, characteristics and survival. Understanding the variation in survival and modifiable predictors is key to informing strategies to improve outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet Bray
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Stuart Howell
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Ball
- Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; St John Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Tan Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Queensland, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Ambulance Victoria, Victoria, Australia; Department of Community Emergency Health and Paramedic Practice, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bridget Dicker
- St John New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand; Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | | | - Andy Swain
- Wellington Free Ambulance, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | | | | | | | - Paul Bailey
- St John Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Judith Finn
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; St John Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Doan TN, Wilson D, Rashford S, Ball S, Bosley E. Spatiotemporal variation in the risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in Queensland, Australia. Resusc Plus 2021; 8:100166. [PMID: 34604821 PMCID: PMC8463902 DOI: 10.1016/j.resplu.2021.100166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spatiotemporal analysis of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) risk is essential to design targeted public health strategies. Such information is lacking in the state of Queensland and Australia more broadly. METHODS We developed a spatiotemporal Bayesian model accounting for spatial and temporal dimensions, space-time interactions, and demographic factors. The model was fit to data of all OHCA cases attended by paramedics in Queensland between January 2007 and December 2019. Parameter inference was performed using the integrated nested Laplace approximation method. We estimated and thematically mapped area-year risk of OHCA occurrence for all 78 local government areas (LGAs) in Queensland. RESULTS We observed spatial variability in OHCA risk among the LGAs. Areas in the north half of the state and two areas in the south exhibited the highest risk; whereas OHCA risk was lowest in the west and south west parts of the state. Demographic factors did not have significant impact on the heterogeneity of risk between the LGAs. An overall trend of modestly decreasing risk of OHCA was found. CONCLUSIONS This study identified areas of high OHCA risk in Queensland, providing valuable information to guide public health policy and optimise resource allocation. Further research is needed to investigate the specifics of the areas that may explain their risk profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tan N. Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Medicine at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Daniel Wilson
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stephen Rashford
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stephen Ball
- Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit, School of Nursing, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
- St John Western Australia, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Marynowski-Traczyk D, Wallis M, Broadbent M, Scuffham P, Young JT, Johnston ANB, FitzGerald G, Heffernan E, Kinner SA, Zhang P, Keijzers G, Bosley E, Martin-Khan M, Shevlin L, Crilly J. Optimising emergency department and acute care for people experiencing mental health problems: a nominal group study. AUST HEALTH REV 2021; 46:519-528. [PMID: 34793296 DOI: 10.1071/ah21092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to identify potential model of care approaches and systems processes for people presenting to acute healthcare settings with mental health problems, including mental illnesses.MethodsFive (consensus) nominal group technique sessions were conducted in 2019 with a purposive sample of stakeholders from health, police, ambulance and consumer agencies (n = 21). Sessions were recorded, transcribed and analysed for thematic content.ResultsPotential model of care approaches and systems processes for people with mental health problems in the emergency department include: a skilled collaborative approach to care; consumer-focused service; knowledge improvement; early assessment; the development of models, systems and processes; and the built environment. In the broader acute care setting, the themes of formal care, linking of services, enhancing informal and innovative care options, improving information sharing and enhancing training and education were identified.ConclusionsCoherent and multifaceted approaches to the provision of care to people with mental health problems and diagnosed mental illnesses who are requiring emergency care include the linking and sharing of systems and information, changing the built environment and exploring new models of service delivery.What is known about the topic?There is considerable evidence of interventions used in the emergency department and acute healthcare settings for this vulnerable group of people with mental health problems and diagnosed mental illnesses; however, the evidence for appropriate model of care approaches and systems processes is limited.What does this paper add?For people with mental health problems in emergency departments and for people with diagnosed mental illnesses in acute care settings, targeted directions to further support treatment include the linking and sharing of systems and information, changing the built environment and exploring new models of service delivery.What are the implications for practitioners?Planning changes to services for mental health clients with acute problems needs to incorporate clinicians, health service planners, architects and a range of emergency services personnel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marianne Wallis
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, NSW, Australia; and School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Qld, Australia
| | - Marc Broadbent
- School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Qld, Australia
| | - Paul Scuffham
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Qld, Australia
| | - Jesse T Young
- Justice Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Amy N B Johnston
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Queensland, Qld, Australia
| | - Gerard FitzGerald
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Qld, Australia
| | - Ed Heffernan
- Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Queensland Health, Qld, Australia
| | - Stuart A Kinner
- Justice Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Ping Zhang
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Qld, Australia
| | - Gerben Keijzers
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gold Coast University Hospital, Qld, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Information Support, Research and Evaluation, Queensland Ambulance Service, Qld, Australia
| | | | | | - Julia Crilly
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Qld, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Doan TN, Prior M, Vollbon W, Rogers B, Rashford S, Bosley E. Survival after Resuscitated Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest in Patients with Paramedic-Identified ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Treated with Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2021; 26:764-771. [PMID: 34731063 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2021.1992054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Background: ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a common cause of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). For these patients, urgent angiography and revascularization is an important treatment goal. There is a lack of data on the prognosis of STEMI patients after OHCA, who are diagnosed and treated by paramedics prior to hospital transport for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).Methods: Included were adult STEMI patients identified and treated by paramedics in Queensland (Australia) from January 2016 to December 2019, transported to a hospital for primary PCI, and receiving primary PCI. Patients were grouped into those with resuscitated OHCA and those without OHCA. Clinically-important time intervals, angiographic and clinical profiles, and survival were described.Results: Patients with OHCA had longer time intervals from prehospital STEMI identification to reperfusion than those without OHCA (median 97 versus 87 mins, p = 0.001). The former had higher rates of cardiac arrhythmia history (50.5 versus 12.4%, p < 0.001), classified low left ventricular ejection fraction on admission (64.9 versus 50.1%, p = 0.006), and cardiogenic shock (5.2 versus 1.2%, p = 0.011) than the latter. A significantly higher proportion of patients with OHCA had multiple diseased vessels (16.9 versus 8.3%, p = 0.005). In-hospital, 30-day, and one-year mortality was low, being 4.1%, 4.1% and 5.2%, respectively, for STEMI patients with OHCA. The corresponding figures for those without OHCA were 1.6%, 1.8% and 3.3%, respectively.Conclusions: Survival in paramedic-identified STEMI patients treated with primary PCI following OHCA resuscitation was high. Rapid angiography and reperfusion are critical in these patients.
Collapse
|
22
|
Doan TN, Wilson D, Rashford S, Sims L, Bosley E. Epidemiology, management and survival outcomes of adult out-of-hospital traumatic cardiac arrest due to blunt, penetrating or burn injury. Emerg Med J 2021; 39:111-117. [PMID: 34706899 DOI: 10.1136/emermed-2021-211723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Survival from out-of-hospital traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) is poor. Regional variation exists regarding epidemiology, management and outcomes. Data on prognostic factors are scant. A better understanding of injury patterns and outcome determinants is key to identifying opportunities for survival improvement. METHODS Included were adult (≥18 years) out-of-hospital TCA due to blunt, penetrating or burn injury, who were attended by Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2019. We compared the characteristics of patients who were pronounced dead on paramedic arrival and those receiving resuscitation from paramedics. Intra-arrest procedures were described for attempted-resuscitation patients. Survival up to 6 months postarrest was reported, and factors associated with survival were investigated. RESULTS 3891 patients were included; 2394 (61.5%) were pronounced dead on paramedic arrival and 1497 (38.5%) received resuscitation from paramedics. Most arrests (79.8%) resulted from blunt trauma. Motor vehicle collision (42.4%) and gunshot wound (17.7%) were the most common injury mechanisms in patients pronounced dead on paramedic arrival, whereas the most prevalent mechanisms in attempted-resuscitation patients were motor vehicle (31.3%) and motorcycle (20.6%) collisions. Among attempted-resuscitation patients, rates of transport and survival to hospital handover, to hospital discharge and to 6 months were 31.9%, 15.3%, 9.8% and 9.8%, respectively. Multivariable model showed that advanced airway management (adjusted OR 1.84; 95% CI 1.06 to 3.17), intravenous access (OR 5.04; 95% CI 2.43 to 10.45) and attendance of high acuity response unit (highly trained prehospital care clinicians) (OR 2.54; 95% CI 1.25 to 5.18) were associated with improved odds of survival to hospital handover. CONCLUSIONS By including all paramedic-attended patients, this study provides a more complete understanding of the epidemiology of out-of-hospital TCA. Contemporary survival rates from adult out-of-hospital TCA who receive resuscitation from paramedics may be higher than historically thought. Factors identified in this study as associated with survival may be useful to guide prognostication and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tan N Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Daniel Wilson
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Louise Sims
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wissa J, Schultz BV, Wilson D, Rashford S, Bosley E, Doan TN. Time to amiodarone administration and survival outcomes in refractory ventricular fibrillation. Emerg Med Australas 2021; 33:1088-1094. [PMID: 34382325 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE International guidelines recommend amiodarone for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in refractory ventricular fibrillation (VF). While early appropriate interventions have been shown to improve OHCA survival, the association between time to amiodarone and survival remains to be established. METHODS Included were adult OHCA in refractory VF, between January 2015 and December 2019, who received a resuscitation attempt with amiodarone from Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics. Patient characteristics and survival outcomes were described. Factors associated with survival were investigated, with a focus on time from arrest to amiodarone administration. Optimal time window for amiodarone administration was determined, and factors influencing whether amiodarone was given within the optimal time window were examined. RESULTS A total of 502 patients were included. The average (range) time from arrest to amiodarone was 25 (4-83) min. Time to amiodarone was negatively associated with survival (adjusted odds ratio 0.93 for event survival; 95% confidence interval 0.89-0.97). The optimal time window for amiodarone was within 23 min following arrest. Patients receiving amiodarone within the optimal time had significantly better survival than those receiving it outside this window (event survival 38.3% vs 20.6%, P < 0.001; discharge survival 25.5% vs 9.7%, P < 0.001; 30-day survival 25.1% vs 9.7%, P < 0.001). Paramedic response time (adjusted odds ratio 0.96; 95% confidence interval 0.92-0.99) and time from arrest to intravenous access (0.71; 0.67-0.76) were independent factors determining whether patients received amiodarone within the optimal time. CONCLUSIONS Earlier amiodarone administration was associated with improved survival. Strategies aimed at reducing delay to amiodarone administration have the potential to improve outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Wissa
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Paramedicine, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brendan V Schultz
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Daniel Wilson
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stephen Rashford
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tan N Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Andrews R, Wynn MT, Vallmuur K, Elcock M, Rashford S, Bosley E, Ter Hofstede AH. Trauma by-pass guideline: A data-driven conformance analysis for road trauma cases in Queensland. Emerg Med Australas 2021; 33:1059-1065. [PMID: 34060229 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Study objectives were to (i) develop and test a whole-of-system method for identifying patients who meet a major trauma by-pass guideline definition; (ii) apply this method to assess conformance to the current 2006 guideline for a road trauma cohort; and (iii) leverage relevant findings to propose improvements to the guideline. METHODS Retrospective analysis of existing, routinely collected data relating to Queensland road trauma patients July 2015 to June 2017. Data from ambulance, aero-medical retrievals, ED, hospital and death registers were linked and used for analysis. Processes of care measured included: frequency of pre-hospital triage criteria, distribution of destination (trauma service level), compliance with guideline (recommended vs actual destination), trauma service level by threat to life (injury severity) (all modes of transport and aero-medical in particular), proportion of patients requiring only ED, transport pathway (direct vs inter-hospital transfer). RESULTS 3847 cases were identified from data as meeting criteria for major trauma by-pass. The top five most frequently used criteria for qualifying patients as meeting the major trauma by-pass guideline were pulse rate, vehicle rollover, possible spinal cord injury, respiration rate and entrapment. The study demonstrates a 65% conformance to the clinical guideline. Overtriaged patients (transported to higher trauma service than recommended) generally reveal International Classification of Disease Injury Severity Score representing a high threat to life. CONCLUSION Overall, the present study found good conformance, with overtriage rate as expected by clinicians. It is recommended to include data values to capture paramedics assessment of trauma level to enable more accurate assessment of conformance to guideline and future revision of the thresholds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Andrews
- School of Information Systems, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Moe T Wynn
- School of Information Systems, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kirsten Vallmuur
- Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Jamieson Trauma Institute, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mark Elcock
- Retrieval Services Queensland, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Arthur Hm Ter Hofstede
- School of Information Systems, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ferris M, Bowles KA, Bray M, Bosley E, Rajaratnam SMW, Wolkow AP. The impact of shift work schedules on PVT performance in naturalistic settings: a systematic review. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2021; 94:1475-1494. [PMID: 33709215 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-021-01668-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Psychomotor Vigilance Test (PVT) is considered the gold standard for detecting sleep loss and circadian misalignment related changes in performance in laboratory and field settings. This short 3-, 5- or 10-min test appraises an individual's sustained vigilant attention on a visual stimulus through reaction time, false starts and performance lapses. The PVT has been widely used as a measure to assess vigilant attention among shift workers, but information evaluating the application and performance of this test in different naturalistic shift work settings is limited. The purpose of this review is to synthesise and evaluate existing literature which has used the PVT to assess and monitor psychomotor performance in response to shift work schedules and rosters performed in real-world settings. METHODS A systematic search of studies examining PVT performance in response to 24/7 shift work schedules (e.g., day, afternoon, evening and night shifts) performed under naturalistic conditions was conducted. Articles were identified by searching Medline, Embase, CINHAL and PsycINFO databases in April 2020. RESULTS The search yielded 135 results, of which 16 publications were suitable to be included in this review. Articles were grouped according to when the PVT was applied to a research cohort, which included (a) multiple instances per shift, (b) commencement and cessation of shift and (c) other varying times. CONCLUSIONS This review suggests PVT performance is typically congruent across studies when the test is applied at generally consistent time intervals. The lack of research concerning the use of the PVT during extended duty shifts (e.g., shifts and on call work > 30 h) is an area for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Ferris
- Monash University, Wellington Rd, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia. .,Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Kelly-Ann Bowles
- Department of Paramedicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mikaela Bray
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Shantha M W Rajaratnam
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexander P Wolkow
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Doan TN, Wilson D, Rashford S, Bosley E. Ambient temperatures, heatwaves and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Brisbane, Australia. Occup Environ Med 2021; 78:oemed-2020-107018. [PMID: 33436382 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-107018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health impacts of temperatures are gaining attention in Australia and worldwide. While a number of studies have investigated the association of temperatures with the risk of cardiovascular diseases, few examined out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and none have done so in Australia. This study examined the exposure-response relationship between temperatures, including heatwaves and OHCA in Brisbane, Australia. METHODS A quasi-Poisson regression model coupled with a distributed lag non-linear model was employed, using OHCA and meteorological data between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2019. Reference temperature was chosen to be the temperature of minimum risk (21.4°C). Heatwaves were defined as daily average temperatures at or above a heat threshold (90th, 95th, 98th, 99th percentile of the yearly temperature distribution) for at least two consecutive days. RESULTS The effect of any temperature above the reference temperature was not statistically significant; whereas low temperatures (below reference temperature) increased OHCA risk. The effect of low temperatures was delayed for 1 day, sustained up to 3 days, peaking at 2 days following exposures. Heatwaves significantly increased OHCA risk across the operational definitions. When a threshold of 95th percentile of yearly temperature distribution was used to define heatwaves, OHCA risk increased 1.25 (95% CI 1.04 to 1.50) times. When the heat threshold for defining heatwaves increased to 99th percentile, the relative risk increased to 1.48 (1.11 to 1.96). CONCLUSIONS Low temperatures and defined heatwaves increase OHCA risk. The findings of this study have important public health implications for mitigating strategies aimed at minimising temperature-related OHCA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tan N Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Daniel Wilson
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stephen Rashford
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ramanan M, Gill D, Doan T, Bosley E, Rashford S, Dennis M, Shekar K. Assessing need for extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest using Power BI for data visualisation. Emerg Med Australas 2020; 33:685-690. [PMID: 33345465 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the number of patients in refractory out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) potentially suitable for transport to an extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR)-capable hospital in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, based on outcome predictors for ECPR, ambulance geolocation and patient data. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed using data from all patients in OHCA attended by Queensland Ambulance Service between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018. The number of refractory arrest patients who could potentially be transferred to an ECPR-capable centre within 45 min of the time of arrest was modelled using theoretical on-scene treatment times. RESULTS Of 25 518 ambulance-attended OHCA in Queensland during the study period, 540 (2%) patients met criteria of refractory arrest for study inclusion. Further age and arrest rhythm criteria for transport to an ECPR-capable hospital were met in 253 (47%) study patients, an average of 51 patients per year. In 2018, 72 patients met study criteria for transport to an ECPR-capable centre. Based on theoretical on-scene treatment times of 12 and 20 min, in 2018 only 14 (19%) and 11 (15%) patients respectively would potentially arrive at an ECPR-capable hospital within accepted timeframes for ECPR. CONCLUSIONS Retrospective data collected from existing ambulance databases can be used to model patient suitability for ECPR. Relatively few patients with refractory OHCA in Queensland, Australia, could be attended and transported to an ECPR-capable centre within clinically acceptable timeframes. Further studies of the transport logistics and economic implications of providing ECPR services for OHCA are required to better inform decisions around this intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Ramanan
- Adult Intensive Care Services, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Intensive Care Unit, Caboolture Hospital, Caboolture, Queensland, Australia.,The George Institute for Global Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Denzil Gill
- Adult Intensive Care Services, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tan Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Mark Dennis
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kiran Shekar
- Adult Intensive Care Services, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Critical Care Research Group and Centre of Research Excellence for Advanced Cardio-respiratory Therapies Improving OrgaN Support (ACTIONS), Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Meurk C, Wittenhagen L, Steele ML, Ferris L, Edwards B, Bosley E, Heffernan E. Examining the Use of Police and Ambulance Data in Suicide Research. Crisis 2020; 42:386-395. [PMID: 33241741 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Police and paramedics are often the first to respond to individuals in suicide crisis and have an important role to play in facilitating optimal care pathways. Yet, little evidence exists to inform these responses. Data linkage provides one approach to examining this knowledge gap. Aim: We identified studies that examined suicide behaviors and linked to police or ambulance data. Method: A systematic search of PubMed and Scopus was undertaken to identify data linkage studies that: (1) examined suicide behaviors, and (2) included police or ambulance data. Studies were reviewed to identify: aims; suicide behaviors examined; how these were measured; how the cohort was defined; topic area; and what datasets were linked. Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Six studies included police data, and two studies included ambulance data. No study included both. Two topic areas were identified: (1) suicide-related contact with police or ambulance services; and (2) associations between suicidal behaviors and violence, victimization, and criminality. Limitations: Limitations to the review include the potential to have missed studies that investigated or reported on suicidality under the guise of mental health problems; complexities and nuances arising from the role of police data in coronial investigations; and limitations in the number of databases searched. Conclusion: Police and ambulance data represent a currently underutilized source of valuable information relevant to suicide crises, and further research should aim to address this gap.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Meurk
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lisa Wittenhagen
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Queensland Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Megan L Steele
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Wacol, QLD, Australia
| | - Laura Ferris
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Kedron, QLD, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ed Heffernan
- Forensic Mental Health Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Wacol, QLD, Australia.,School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Queensland Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pemberton K, Franklin RC, Bosley E, Watt K. Long-term outcomes of adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Queensland, Australia (2002-2014): incidence and temporal trends. Heart 2020; 107:1310-1319. [PMID: 33219108 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2020-317333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe annual incidence and temporal trends (2002-2014) in incidence of long-term outcomes of adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) of presumed cardiac aetiology attended by Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) paramedics, by age, gender, geographical remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES). METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study. Cases were identified using the QAS OHCA Registry and were linked with entries in the Queensland Hospital Admitted Patient Data Collection and the Queensland Registrar General Death Registry. Population data were obtained from the Australian Bureau of Statistics to calculate incidence. Inclusion criteria were adult (18+ years) residents of Queensland who suffered OHCA of presumed cardiac aetiology and survived to hospital admission. Analyses were undertaken by three mutually exclusive outcomes: (1) survival to less than 30 days (Surv<30 days); (2) survival from 30 to 364 days (Surv30-364 days); and (3) survival to 365 days or more (Surv365+ days). Incidence rates were calculated for each year by gender, age, remoteness and SES. Temporal trends were analysed. RESULTS Over the 13 years there were 4393 cases for analyses. The incidence of total admitted events (9.72-10.13; p<0.01), Surv30-364 days (0.18-0.42; p<0.05) and Surv365+ days (1.94-4.02; p<0.001) increased significantly over time; no trends were observed for Surv<30 days. An increase in Surv365+ days over time was observed in all remoteness categories and most SES categories. CONCLUSION Evidence suggests that implemented strategies to improve outcomes from OHCA have been successful and penetrated groups living in more remote locations and the lower socioeconomic groups. These populations still require focus. Ongoing reporting of long-term outcomes from OHCA should be undertaken using population-based incidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Pemberton
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia .,Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Richard C Franklin
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kerrianne Watt
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia.,Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Doan TN, Wilson K, Schultz BV, Rogers B, Vollbon W, Prior M, Rashford S, Bosley E. Survival in Patients with Paramedic-Identified ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2020; 25:487-495. [PMID: 32790490 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2020.1809753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Field identification and treatment of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) by paramedics is an important component of care for these patients. There is a paucity of studies in the setting of paramedic-identified STEMI. This study investigated mortality and factors associated with mortality in a large state-wide prehospital STEMI sample. Methods: Included were adult STEMI patients identified and treated with reperfusion therapy by paramedics in the field between January 2016 and December 2018 in Queensland, Australia. 30-day and one-year all-cause mortality was compared between two prehospital reperfusion pathways: prehospital fibrinolysis versus direct referral to a hospital for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (direct percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI] referral). For prehospital fibrinolysis patients, factors associated with failed fibrinolysis were investigated. For direct PCI referral patients, factors associated with mortality were examined. Results: The 30-day mortality was 2.2% for prehospital fibrinolysis group and 1.8% for direct PCI referral group (p = 0.661). One-year mortality for the two groups was 2.7% and 3.2%, respectively (p = 0.732). Failed prehospital fibrinolysis was observed in 20.1% of patients receiving this therapy, with male gender and history of heart failure being predictors. For direct PCI referral group, low left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) on admission and cardiogenic shock prior to PCI were predictors of both 30-day and one-year mortality. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status, and impaired kidney function on admission, were associated with one-year but not 30-day mortality. Being overweight was associated with lower 30-day mortality. Conclusions: Mortality in STEMI patients identified and treated by paramedics was low, and the prehospital fibrinolysis treatment pathway was effective with a mortality rate comparable to that of patients undergoing primary PCI. Key words: prehospital; Queensland; cardiac reperfusion; STEMI.
Collapse
|
31
|
Lubman DI, Heilbronn C, Ogeil RP, Killian JJ, Matthews S, Smith K, Bosley E, Carney R, McLaughlin K, Wilson A, Eastham M, Shipp C, Witt K, Lloyd B, Scott D. National Ambulance Surveillance System: A novel method using coded Australian ambulance clinical records to monitor self-harm and mental health-related morbidity. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236344. [PMID: 32735559 PMCID: PMC7394421 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-harm and mental health are inter-related issues that substantially contribute to the global burden of disease. However, measurement of these issues at the population level is problematic. Statistics on suicide can be captured in national cause of death data collected as part of the coroner's review process, however, there is a significant time-lag in the availability of such data, and by definition, these sources do not include non-fatal incidents. Although survey, emergency department, and hospitalisation data present alternative information sources to measure self-harm, such data do not include the richness of information available at the point of incident. This paper describes the mental health and self-harm modules within the National Ambulance Surveillance System (NASS), a unique Australian system for monitoring and mapping mental health and self-harm. Data are sourced from paramedic electronic patient care records provided by Australian state and territory-based ambulance services. A team of specialised research assistants use a purpose-built system to manually scrutinise and code these records. Specific details of each incident are coded, including mental health symptoms and relevant risk indicators, as well as the type, intent, and method of self-harm. NASS provides almost 90 output variables related to self-harm (i.e., type of behaviour, self-injurious intent, and method) and mental health (e.g., mental health symptoms) in the 24 hours preceding each attendance, as well as demographics, temporal and geospatial characteristics, clinical outcomes, co-occurring substance use, and self-reported medical and psychiatric history. NASS provides internationally unique data on self-harm and mental health, with direct implications for translational research, public policy, and clinical practice. This methodology could be replicated in other countries with universal ambulance service provision to inform health policy and service planning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan I. Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Cherie Heilbronn
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rowan P. Ogeil
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica J. Killian
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon Matthews
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Ambulance Victoria, Doncaster, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paramedicine, Monash University, Frankston, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rosemary Carney
- New South Wales Ambulance, Rozelle, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Alex Wilson
- Ambulance Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Matthew Eastham
- St John Ambulance Australia (NT) Inc., Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Carol Shipp
- Australian Capital Territory Ambulance Service, Fairbairn, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Katrina Witt
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Belinda Lloyd
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Debbie Scott
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Man NWY, Forero R, Ngo H, Mountain D, FitzGerald G, Toloo GS, McCarthy S, Mohsin M, Fatovich DM, Bailey P, Bosley E, Carney R, Lai HMX, Hillman K. Impact of the Four-Hour Rule policy on emergency medical services delays in Australian EDs: a longitudinal cohort study. Emerg Med J 2020; 37:793-800. [PMID: 32669320 DOI: 10.1136/emermed-2019-208958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Delayed handover of emergency medical services (EMS) patients to EDs is a major issue with hospital crowding considered a primary cause. We explore the impact of the 4-hour rule (the Policy) in Australia, focusing on ambulance and ED delays. METHODS EMS (ambulance), ED and hospital data of adult patients presenting to 14 EDs from 2002 to 2013 in three jurisdictions were linked. Interrupted time series 'Before-and-After' trend analysis was used for assessing the Policy's impact. Random effects meta-regression analysis was examined for associations between ambulance delays and Policy-associated ED intake, throughput and output changes. RESULTS Before the Policy, the proportion of ED ambulances delayed increased between 1.1% and 1.7% per quarter across jurisdictions. After Policy introduction, Western Australia's increasing trend continued but Queensland decreased by 5.1% per quarter. In New South Wales, ambulance delay decreased 7.1% in the first quarter after Policy introduction. ED intake (triage delay) improved only in New South Wales and Queensland. Each 1% ambulance delay reduction was significantly associated with a 0.91% reduction in triage delay (p=0.014) but not ED length of stay ≤4 hours (p=0.307) or access-block/boarding (p=0.605) suggesting only partial improvement in ambulance delay overall. CONCLUSION The Policy was associated with reduced ambulance delays over time in Queensland and only the immediate period in New South Wales. Associations may be due to local jurisdictional initiatives to improve ambulance performance. Strategies to alleviate ambulance delay may need to focus on the ED intake component. These should be re-examined with longer periods of post-Policy data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Wing Young Man
- Simpson Centre for Health Services Research, South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia.,National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Roberto Forero
- Simpson Centre for Health Services Research, South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia .,Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hanh Ngo
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Services, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David Mountain
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Services, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Emergency Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gerard FitzGerald
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ghasem Sam Toloo
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sally McCarthy
- Emergency Department, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.,Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mohammed Mohsin
- Psychiatry Research and Teaching Unit, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Daniel M Fatovich
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Services, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Emergency Medicine, Royal Perth Hospital, Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Paul Bailey
- St John Ambulance Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rosemary Carney
- New South Wales Ambulance Service, Rozelle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Harry Man Xiong Lai
- New South Wales Ambulance Service, Rozelle, New South Wales, Australia.,Discipline of Psychiatry, University Of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ken Hillman
- Simpson Centre for Health Services Research, South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia.,Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Schultz BV, Hall S, Parker L, Rashford S, Bosley E. Epidemiology of Oxytocin Administration in Out-of-Hospital Births Attended by Paramedics. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2020; 25:412-417. [PMID: 32584626 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2020.1786613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM Primary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a life-threatening obstetric emergency that can be mitigated through the administration of a uterotonic to actively manage the third stage of labor. This study describes the prehospital administration of oxytocin by paramedics following attendance of out-of-hospital (OOH) births. METHODS A retrospective analysis was undertaken of all OOH births between the 1st January 2018 and 31st December 2018 attended by the Queensland Ambulance Service. The demographic and epidemiological characteristics of patients that were administered oxytocin and the occurrence of adverse side effects were described. RESULTS In total, 350 OOH births were included in this study with the majority involving multigravidas women (94.3%) and all but two involving singleton pregnancies. Oxytocin was administered following 222 births (63.4%), while 67 patients (19.1%) declined administration preferring a physiological third stage of labor, and in 61 cases (17.4%) oxytocin was withheld by the attending paramedic. There were no documented adverse events or side effects following administration. Oxytocin administration occurred on average 14 minutes (interquartile range 9-25) following the time of birth. The median time from oxytocin administration to placenta delivery was 10 minutes (interquartile range 5-22). CONCLUSION Oxytocin is well accepted and safe treatment adjunct for the management of the third stage of labor in OOH births and should be considered for routine practice by other emergency medical services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brendan V Schultz
- Received February 12, 2020 from Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia (BVS, SH, LP, SR, EB); School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia (SH, SR, EB) Revision received June 14, 2020; accepted for publication June 19, 2020
| | - Shonel Hall
- Received February 12, 2020 from Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia (BVS, SH, LP, SR, EB); School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia (SH, SR, EB) Revision received June 14, 2020; accepted for publication June 19, 2020
| | - Lachlan Parker
- Received February 12, 2020 from Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia (BVS, SH, LP, SR, EB); School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia (SH, SR, EB) Revision received June 14, 2020; accepted for publication June 19, 2020
| | - Stephen Rashford
- Received February 12, 2020 from Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia (BVS, SH, LP, SR, EB); School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia (SH, SR, EB) Revision received June 14, 2020; accepted for publication June 19, 2020
| | - Emma Bosley
- Received February 12, 2020 from Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Brisbane, Australia (BVS, SH, LP, SR, EB); School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia (SH, SR, EB) Revision received June 14, 2020; accepted for publication June 19, 2020
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Andrews R, Wynn MT, Vallmuur K, ter Hofstede AHM, Bosley E. A Comparative Process Mining Analysis of Road Trauma Patient Pathways. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17103426. [PMID: 32423060 PMCID: PMC7277496 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this paper we report on key findings and lessons from a process mining case study conducted to analyse transport pathways discovered across the time-critical phase of pre-hospital care for persons involved in road traffic crashes in Queensland (Australia). In this study, a case is defined as being an individual patient’s journey from roadside to definitive care. We describe challenges in constructing an event log from source data provided by emergency services and hospitals, including record linkage (no standard patient identifier), and constructing a unified view of response, retrieval, transport and pre-hospital care from interleaving processes of the individual service providers. We analyse three separate cohorts of patients according to their degree of interaction with Queensland Health’s hospital system (C1: no transport required, C2: transported but no Queensland Health hospital, C3: transported and hospitalisation). Variant analysis and subsequent process modelling show high levels of variance in each cohort resulting from a combination of data collection, data linkage and actual differences in process execution. For Cohort 3, automated process modelling generated ’spaghetti’ models. Expert-guided editing resulted in readable models with acceptable fitness, which were used for process analysis. We also conduct a comparative performance analysis of transport segment based on hospital ‘remoteness’. With regard to the field of process mining, we reach various conclusions including (i) in a complex domain, the current crop of automated process algorithms do not generate readable models, however, (ii) such models provide a starting point for expert-guided editing of models (where the tool allows) which can yield models that have acceptable quality and are readable by domain experts, (iii) process improvement opportunities were largely suggested by domain experts (after reviewing analysis results) rather than being directly derived by process mining tools, meaning that the field needs to become more prescriptive (automated derivation of improvement opportunities).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Andrews
- School of Information Systems, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane 4000, Australia; (M.T.W.); (A.H.M.t.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-7-31380193
| | - Moe T. Wynn
- School of Information Systems, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane 4000, Australia; (M.T.W.); (A.H.M.t.H.)
| | - Kirsten Vallmuur
- Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane 4059, Australia;
- Jamieson Trauma Institute, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane 4029, Australia
| | - Arthur H. M. ter Hofstede
- School of Information Systems, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane 4000, Australia; (M.T.W.); (A.H.M.t.H.)
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), Brisbane 4034, Australia;
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Schultz BV, Doan TN, Bosley E, Rogers B, Rashford S. Prehospital study of survival outcomes from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in ST-elevation myocardial infarction in Queensland, Australia (the PRAISE study). Eur Heart J Acute Cardiovasc Care 2020; 10:2048872620907529. [PMID: 32319300 DOI: 10.1177/2048872620907529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
AIM Patients that experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the context of a paramedic-identified ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction are a unique cohort. This study identifies the survival outcomes and determinants of survival in these patients. METHODS A retrospective analysis was undertaken of all patients, attended between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2017 by the Queensland Ambulance Service, who had a ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction identified by the attending paramedic prior to deterioration into out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. We described the 'survived event' and 'survived to discharge' outcomes of patients and performed univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression to identify factors associated with survival. RESULTS In total, 287 patients were included. Overall, high rates of survival were reported, with 77% of patients surviving the initial out-of-hospital cardiac arrest event and 75% surviving to discharge. Predictors of event survival were the presence of an initial shockable rhythm (adjusted odds ratio 8.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.16-17.76; P < 0.001) and the administration of prehospital medication for subsequent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (adjusted odds ratio 2.54, 95% CI 1.17-5.50; P = 0.020). These factors were also found to be associated with survival to hospital discharge, increasing the odds of survival by 13.74 (95% CI 6.02-31.32; P < 0.001) and 6.96 (95% CI 2.50-19.41; P < 0.001) times, respectively. The administration of prehospital fibrinolytic medication was also associated with survival in a subgroup analysis. CONCLUSION This subset of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients was found to be highly salvageable and responsive to resuscitative measures, having arrested in the presence of paramedics and presented with an identified reversible cause.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brendan V Schultz
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Australia
| | - Tan N Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Australia
- Department of Medicine at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Australia
| | - Brett Rogers
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Australia
| | - Stephen Rashford
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Government Department of Health, Australia
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Doan TN, Adams L, Schultz BV, Bunting D, Parker L, Rashford S, Bosley E. Insights into the epidemiology of cardiopulmonary resuscitation‐induced consciousness in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest. Emerg Med Australas 2020; 32:769-776. [DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tan N Doan
- Queensland Ambulance Service Queensland Government Department of Health Brisbane Queensland Australia
- Department of Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital The University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine James Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia
| | - Luke Adams
- Queensland Ambulance Service Queensland Government Department of Health Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Brendan V Schultz
- Queensland Ambulance Service Queensland Government Department of Health Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Denise Bunting
- Queensland Ambulance Service Queensland Government Department of Health Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Lachlan Parker
- Queensland Ambulance Service Queensland Government Department of Health Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Stephen Rashford
- Queensland Ambulance Service Queensland Government Department of Health Brisbane Queensland Australia
- School of Public Health and Social Work Queensland University of Technology Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service Queensland Government Department of Health Brisbane Queensland Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences Queensland University of Technology Brisbane Queensland Australia
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Doan TN, Schultz BV, Rashford S, Bosley E. Surviving out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: The important role of bystander interventions. Australas Emerg Care 2020; 23:47-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
38
|
Crilly J, Johnston AN, Wallis M, O'Dwyer J, Byrnes J, Scuffham P, Zhang P, Bosley E, Chaboyer W, Green D. Improving emergency department transfer for patients arriving by ambulance: A retrospective observational study. Emerg Med Australas 2019; 32:271-280. [PMID: 31867883 PMCID: PMC7155107 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective Extended delays in the transfer of patients from ambulance to ED can compromise patient flow. The present study aimed to describe the relationship between the use of an Emergency Department Ambulance Off‐Load Nurse (EDAOLN) role, ED processes of care and cost effectiveness. Methods This was a retrospective observational study over three periods of before (T1), during (T2) and after (T3) the introduction of the EDAOLN role in 2012. Ambulance, ED and cost data were linked and used for analysis. Processes of care measures analysed included: time to be seen by a doctor from ED arrival (primary outcome), ambulance‐ED offload compliance, proportion of patients seen within recommended triage timeframe, ED length of stay (LoS), proportion of patients transferred, admitted or discharged from the ED within 4 h and cost effectiveness. Results A total of 6045 people made 7010 presentations to the ED by ambulance over the study period. Several measures improved significantly between T1 and T2 including offload compliance (T1: 58%; T2: 63%), time to be seen (T1: 31 min; T2: 28 min), ED LoS (T1: 335 min; T2: 306 min), ED LoS <4 h (T1: 31%; T2: 33%). Some measures carried over into T3, albeit to a lesser extent. Post‐hoc analyses showed that outcomes improved most for less urgent patients. The annualised net cost of the EDAOLN (if funded from additional resources) of $130 721 could result in an annualised reduction of approximately 3912 h in waiting time to be seen by a doctor. Conclusion With the EDAOLN role in place, slight outcome improvements in several key ambulance and ED efficiency criteria were noted. During times of ED crowding, the EDAOLN role may be one cost‐effective strategy to consider.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Crilly
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast Health, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Amy Nb Johnston
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast Health, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia.,School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Marianne Wallis
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
| | - John O'Dwyer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast Health, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,Australian eHealth Research Centre, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Joshua Byrnes
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, Griffith University Nathan Campus, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul Scuffham
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, Griffith University Nathan Campus, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ping Zhang
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Office of the Commissioner, Queensland Ambulance Service, Department of Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Wendy Chaboyer
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - David Green
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast Health, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, Griffith University Nathan Campus, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Doan TN, Schultz BV, Rashford S, Rogers B, Prior M, Vollbon W, Bosley E. Prehospital ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) in Queensland, Australia: Findings from 11 Years of the Statewide Prehospital Reperfusion Strategy. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2019; 24:326-334. [DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2019.1651433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
40
|
Pemberton K, Bosley E, Franklin RC, Watt K. Epidemiology of pre-hospital outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Queensland, Australia. Emerg Med Australas 2019; 31:821-829. [PMID: 31352680 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe incidence in pre-hospital outcomes of adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) of presumed cardiac aetiology, attended by Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) paramedics between 2002 and 2014, by age, gender, geographical remoteness and socio-economic status. METHODS The QAS OHCA Registry was used to identify cases, which was then linked with Queensland Hospital Admitted Patient Data Collection and Queensland Death Registry. Population data were obtained for each calendar year by age and gender from the Australian Bureau of Statistics in order to calculate incidence rates. Four mutually exclusive pre-hospital outcomes were analysed: (i) no resuscitation (No-Resus); (ii) resuscitation, no pre-hospital return of spontaneous circulation (No-ROSC); (iii) resuscitation, pre-hospital return of spontaneous circulation not sustained to hospital (Unsustained-ROSC); and (iv) resuscitation, pre-hospital return of spontaneous circulation sustained to hospital (Sustained-ROSC). RESULTS Over the 13 years, there were 30 560 OHCA cases for analyses. Incidence was significantly greater in males than females and incrementally increased with age, for each outcome. Incidence of total OHCA events generally increased as remoteness increased (major cities: 72.39 per 100 000 [95% CI 71.35-73.45]; very remote: 87.01 per 100 000 [95% CI 78.03-95.98]). There was an inverse association between incidence of OHCA events and socio-economic status (SEIFA 1 and 2: 81.34 per 100 000 [95% CI 79.28-83.40]; SEIFA 9 and 10: 61.57 per 100 000 [95% CI 59.67-63.46]). CONCLUSION Rural-specific strategies should be continued. Prevention and management strategies for OHCA targeting lower socio-economic groups require focus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Pemberton
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia.,Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Richard C Franklin
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kerrianne Watt
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Pemberton K, Bosley E, C Franklin R, Watt K. Pre‐hospital outcomes of adult out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest of presumed cardiac aetiology in Queensland, Australia (2002–2014): Trends over time. Emerg Med Australas 2019; 31:813-820. [DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Pemberton
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia
- Queensland Ambulance Service Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Richard C Franklin
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia
| | - Kerrianne Watt
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary SciencesJames Cook University Townsville Queensland Australia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Marynowski-Traczyk D, Broadbent M, Kinner SA, FitzGerald G, Heffernan E, Johnston A, Young JT, Keijzers G, Scuffham P, Bosley E, Martin-Khan M, Zhang P, Crilly J. Mental health presentations to the emergency department: A perspective on the involvement of social support networks. Australas Emerg Care 2019; 22:162-167. [PMID: 31300299 DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The involvement of families, carers and significant others (i.e. social support networks) has a positive corollary for a person experiencing mental health problems. Accordingly, in Australia involvement of social support networks within mental health services is endorsed in national health policy and service guidelines. Despite the endorsement, this is yet to be fully realised in all areas that provide mental health services, including emergency departments. Social support networks are integral in the provision of mental health consumers' care. Supporting the involvement of social support networks in the emergency department can provide healthcare services with opportunities for enhanced and cost-effective care, contributing to improved outcomes for consumers. An overview of some of the barriers and facilitators of social support network involvement is provided. The intention of this paper is to encourage reflection and dialogue on this important area of mental health service provision and support the evolution of a new paradigm of research into social support network involvement in the emergency department.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donna Marynowski-Traczyk
- Griffith University, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, QLD, Australia; University of the Sunshine Coast, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, QLD, Australia.
| | - Marc Broadbent
- University of the Sunshine Coast, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, QLD, Australia
| | - Stuart A Kinner
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Centre for Adolescent Health, VIC, Australia; University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, VIC, Australia; University of Queensland, Mater Research Institute-UQ, QLD, Australia; Griffith University, Griffith Criminology Institute, QLD, Australia; Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, VIC, Australia
| | - Gerard FitzGerald
- Queensland University of Technology, School of Public Health and Social Work, QLD, Australia
| | - Ed Heffernan
- Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Queensland Health, QLD, Australia
| | - Amy Johnston
- University of Queensland, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, QLD, Australia; Department of Emergency Medicine, Princess Alexandra Hospital, QLD, Australia
| | - Jesse T Young
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Centre for Adolescent Health, VIC, Australia; University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, VIC, Australia; University of Western Australia, School of Population and Global Health, WA, Australia; Curtin University, National Drug Research Institute, WA, Australia
| | - Gerben Keijzers
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gold Coast Health, QLD, Australia; Bond University, School of Medicine, QLD, Australia; Griffith University, School of Medicine, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul Scuffham
- Griffith University, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, QLD, Australia; Griffith University, School of Medicine, QLD, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Information Support, Research and Evaluation, QLD, Australia
| | - Melinda Martin-Khan
- University of Queensland, Centre for Health Services Research, QLD, Australia
| | - Ping Zhang
- Griffith University, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Julia Crilly
- Griffith University, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, QLD, Australia; Department of Emergency Medicine, Gold Coast Health, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Johnston ANB, Spencer M, Wallis M, Kinner SA, Broadbent M, Young JT, Heffernan E, Fitzgerald G, Bosley E, Keijzers G, Scuffham P, Zhang P, Martin‐Khan M, Crilly J. Review article: Interventions for people presenting to emergency departments with a mental health problem: A systematic scoping review. Emerg Med Australas 2019; 31:715-729. [DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amy NB Johnston
- Health and Behavioural SciencesThe University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
- Department of Emergency MedicinePrincess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Melinda Spencer
- Menzies Health Institute QueenslandGriffith University Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Marianne Wallis
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyUniversity of the Sunshine Coast Sunshine Coast Queensland Australia
| | - Stuart A Kinner
- Melbourne School of Population and Global HealthThe University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Marc Broadbent
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyUniversity of the Sunshine Coast Sunshine Coast Queensland Australia
| | - Jesse T Young
- The University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Ed Heffernan
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Gerry Fitzgerald
- Queensland University of Technology Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Gerben Keijzers
- Gold Coast University Hospital Gold Coast Queensland Australia
| | - Paul Scuffham
- Menzies Health Institute QueenslandGriffith University Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Ping Zhang
- Griffith University – Gold Coast Campus Gold Coast Queensland Australia
| | - Melinda Martin‐Khan
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Julia Crilly
- Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service Gold Coast Queensland Australia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Ferguson N, Savic M, McCann TV, Emond K, Sandral E, Smith K, Roberts L, Bosley E, Lubman DI. "I was worried if I don't have a broken leg they might not take it seriously": Experiences of men accessing ambulance services for mental health and/or alcohol and other drug problems. Health Expect 2019; 22:565-574. [PMID: 30945425 PMCID: PMC6543159 DOI: 10.1111/hex.12886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A large proportion of ambulance callouts are for men with mental health and/or alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems, but little is known about their experiences of care. This study aimed to describe men's experiences of ambulance care for mental health and/or AOD problems, and factors that influence their care. Methods Interviews were undertaken with 30 men who used an ambulance service for mental health and/or AOD problems in Australia. Interviews were analysed using the Framework approach to thematic analysis. Results Three interconnected themes were abstracted from the data: (a) professionalism and compassion, (b) communication and (c) handover to emergency department staff. Positive experiences often involved paramedics communicating effectively and conveying compassion throughout the episode of care. Conversely, negative experiences often involved a perceived lack of professionalism, and poor communication, especially at handover to emergency department staff. Conclusion Increased training and organizational measures may be needed to enhance paramedics' communication when providing care to men with mental health and/or AOD problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nyssa Ferguson
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Savic
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Terence V McCann
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Emond
- Department of Rural Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Science and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Sandral
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Ambulance Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Community Emergency Health and Paramedic Practice, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louise Roberts
- Department of Paramedics, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dan I Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
McCann TV, Savic M, Ferguson N, Bosley E, Smith K, Roberts L, Emond K, Lubman DI. Paramedics' perceptions of their scope of practice in caring for patients with non-medical emergency-related mental health and/or alcohol and other drug problems: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0208391. [PMID: 30543663 PMCID: PMC6292637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0208391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paramedics are called on frequently to provide care to patients with mental health and/or and alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems, but may have mixed views about how this fits within their role. AIMS To explore paramedics' experience of caring for patients with non-medical emergency-related mental health and/or AOD problems, understand their perceptions of their scope of practice in caring for these patients, and ascertain if their practice should be extended to incorporate education with these patients. METHOD A convenience sample of 73 paramedics from most Australian states and territories-recruited through an online survey-participated in individual audio-recorded, qualitative interviews, conducted by telephone. The interviews were part of a mixed method study comprising qualitative interviews and online survey. A Framework Method of analysis to analyse the qualitative data. RESULTS Three themes and sub-themes were abstracted from the data about participants' experiences and, at times, opposing viewpoints about caring for patients with non-medical emergency-related mental health and/or AOD problems: caring for these patients is a routine part of paramedics' work, contrasting perspectives about scope of practice in caring for this group of patients, competing perspectives about extending scope of practice to incorporate education with this cohort of patients. CONCLUSIONS Paramedics need more undergraduate and in-service education about the care of patients with mental health and/or AOD problems, and to address concerns about extending their scope of practice to include education with these patients. Thought should be given to introducing alternative models of paramedic practice, such as community paramedicine, with a focus on supporting people in the community with mental health and/or AOD problems. There is a need for a change in workplace and organisational culture about scope of practice in caring for patients with these problems. Extending paramedics' role could, potentially, benefit people with these problems by improving the quality of care, reducing the need for transportation to emergency departments, and decreasing clinicians' workloads in these departments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terence V. McCann
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute of Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Michael Savic
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nyssa Ferguson
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Ambulance Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louise Roberts
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kate Emond
- Department of Rural Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Science and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dan I. Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
McCann TV, Savic M, Ferguson N, Cheetham A, Witt K, Emond K, Bosley E, Smith K, Roberts L, Lubman DI. Recognition of, and attitudes towards, people with depression and psychosis with/without alcohol and other drug problems: results from a national survey of Australian paramedics. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e023860. [PMID: 30514822 PMCID: PMC6286471 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Continuing stigma towards mental health problems means that many individuals-especially men-will first present in crisis, with emergency services often the first point of call. Given this situation, the aims of this paper were to assess paramedics' ability to recognise, and their attitudes towards, males with clinically defined depression and psychosis with and without comorbid alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems. METHODS A cross-sectional national online survey of 1230 paramedics throughout Australia. The survey was based on four vignettes: depression with suicidal thoughts, depression with suicidal thoughts and comorbid alcohol problems, and psychosis with and without comorbid AOD problems. RESULTS Just under half of respondents recognised depression, but this decreased markedly to one-fifth when comorbid AOD problems were added to the vignette. In contrast, almost 90% recognised psychosis, but this decreased to just under 60% when comorbid AOD problems were added. Respondents were more likely to hold stigmatising attitudes towards people in the vignettes with depression and psychosis when comorbid AOD problems were present. Respondents endorsed questionnaire items assessing perceived social stigma more strongly than personal stigma. Desire for social distance was greater in vignettes focusing on psychosis with and without comorbid AOD problems than depression with and without comorbid AOD problems. CONCLUSIONS Paramedics need a well-crafted multicomponent response which involves cultural change within their organisations and more education to improve their recognition of, and attitudes towards, clients with mental health and AOD problems. Education should focus on the recognition and care of people with specific mental disorders rather than on mental disorders in general. It is essential that education also focuses on understanding and caring for people with AOD problems. Educational interventions should focus on aligning beliefs about public perceptions with personal beliefs about people with mental disorders and AOD problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terence V McCann
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute of Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Savic
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nyssa Ferguson
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison Cheetham
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katrina Witt
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Emond
- Department of Rural Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Science and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Ambulance Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louise Roberts
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dan I Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Beck B, Finn J, Bray J, Cameron P, Walker T, Bernard S, Grantham H, Hein C, Thorrowgood M, Smith A, Inoue M, Smith T, Dicker B, Swain A, Bosley E, Johnston-Leek M, Perkins GD, Nichol G, Smith K. Comparing risk-adjusted outcomes from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest across Australia and New Zealand. Resuscitation 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2018.07.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
48
|
Page CB, Parker LE, Rashford SJ, Bosley E, Isoardi KZ, Williamson FE, Isbister GK. A Prospective Before and After Study of Droperidol for Prehospital Acute Behavioral Disturbance. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2018; 22:713-721. [DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2018.1445329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
49
|
Beck B, Bray J, Cameron P, Smith K, Walker T, Grantham H, Hein C, Thorrowgood M, Smith A, Inoue M, Smith T, Dicker B, Swain A, Bosley E, Pemberton K, McKay M, Johnston-Leek M, Perkins GD, Nichol G, Finn J. Regional variation in the characteristics, incidence and outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Australia and New Zealand: Results from the Aus-ROC Epistry. Resuscitation 2018; 126:49-57. [PMID: 29499230 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2018.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to investigate regional variation in the characteristics, incidence and outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in Australia and New Zealand. METHODS This was a population-based cohort study of OHCA using data from the Aus-ROC Australian and New Zealand OHCA Epistry over the period of 01 January 2015-31 December 2015. Seven ambulance services contributed data to the Epistry with a capture population of 19.8 million people. All OHCA attended by ambulance, regardless of aetiology or patient age, were included. RESULTS In 2015, there were 19,722 OHCA cases recorded in the Aus-ROC Epistry with an overall crude incidence of 102.5 cases per 100,000 population (range: 51.0-107.7 per 100,000 population). Of all OHCA cases attended by EMS (excluding EMS-witnessed cases), bystander CPR was performed in 41% of cases (range: 36%-50%). Resuscitation was attempted (by EMS) in 48% of cases (range: 40%-68%). The crude incidence for attempted resuscitation cases was 47.6 per 100,000 population (range: 34.7-54.1 per 100,000 population). Of cases with attempted resuscitation, 28% survived the event (range: 21%-36%) and 12% survived to hospital discharge or 30 days (range: 9%-17%; data provided by five ambulance services). CONCLUSION In the first results of the Aus-ROC Australian and New Zealand OHCA Epistry, significant regional variation in the incidence, characteristics and outcomes was observed. Understanding the system-level and public health drivers of this variation will assist in optimisation of the chain of survival provided to OHCA patients with the aim of improving outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ben Beck
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Janet Bray
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; Emergency and Trauma Centre, The Alfred, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Cameron
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Emergency and Trauma Centre, The Alfred, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen Smith
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Ambulance Victoria, Victoria, Australia; Department of Community Emergency Health and Paramedic Practice, Monash University, Australia
| | | | - Hugh Grantham
- Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; Flinders University, South Australia, Australia; SA Ambulance Service, South Australia, Australia
| | - Cindy Hein
- Flinders University, South Australia, Australia; SA Ambulance Service, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Anthony Smith
- St John Ambulance Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Madoka Inoue
- Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Bridget Dicker
- St John, Auckland, New Zealand; Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andy Swain
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand; Wellington Free Ambulance, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Gavin D Perkins
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Graham Nichol
- University of Washington-Harborview Center for Prehospital Emergency Care, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Judith Finn
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia; St John Ambulance Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Khanna S, Boyle J, Bosley E, Lind J. Ambulance Arrivals and ED Flow - A Queensland Perspective. Stud Health Technol Inform 2018; 252:80-85. [PMID: 30040687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
While it is widely accepted that whole of hospital solutions are necessary to reduce the ever-increasing burden on the public health system, little research has focussed on understanding the relationship between ambulance arrival related flow metrics and emergency department (ED) crowding. Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) shares patient load across multiple hospitals, and receiving facilities strive to meet a Patient Off Stretcher Time (POST) target of 30 minutes. We examine ambulance arrival data from the QAS and ED patient arrival data from 15 major metropolitan hospitals across Queensland, to understand temporal variations in POST performance and examine the relationship between POST performance and ED crowding. The findings suggest a relationship between ED occupancy levels and both ambulances waiting at the ED door and average POST at larger hospitals. No relationship between POST and ED length of stay was found, perhaps due to competing ED National Emergency Access Targets (NEAT). Further modelling is recommended to formally test these observations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sankalp Khanna
- CSIRO Australian e-Health Research Centre, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Justin Boyle
- CSIRO Australian e-Health Research Centre, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|