The value of preliminary clinical evaluation for decision making in injuries of the hand and wrist
Stevens, Barry
Thompson, John D
Thompson, John D
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Affiliation
Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust; University of Salford
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Publication date
2019-07-11
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Abstract
Introduction: Recent research suggests that up to 20% of minor trauma patients admitted to the emergency department (ED) will suffer from non-specific chronic conditions over the subsequent several months. Thus, the present study assessed the correlates of symptoms that persisted at 4 months after an ED visit and, in particular, evaluated the associations between these symptoms and self-reported stress levels at ED admission and discharge.
Method: This study was a prospective observational investigation conducted in the ED of Bordeaux University Hospital that included patients admitted for minor trauma. All participants were contacted by phone 4 months after presentation at the ED to assess the occurrence of post-concussion-like symptoms (PCLS).
Results: A total of 193 patients completed the follow-up assessment at 4 months; 5.2% of the participants suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and 24.5% suffered from PCLS. A multivariate analysis revealed an association between PCLS and stress level at discharge from the ED (odds ratios [OR]: 2.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10–7.40).
Conclusions: The risk of PCLS at 4 months after an ED visit for a minor injury increased in association with the level of stress at discharge from the ED. These results may improve the quality of life for the millions of patients who experience a stressful injury event every year.
Citation
Stevens BJ, Thompson JD. The value of preliminary clinical evaluation for decision making in injuries of the hand and wrist. Int Emerg Nurs. 2020 Jan;48:100775.
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Article