Checklist approach to vertigo: audit of current practice in a tertiary referral center

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Vertigo is a complex symptom which can be present in multiple conditions, some of which are life threatening. Diagnosing a patient with vertigo could sometimes be challenging and there is a need for a comprehensive, yet easily reproducible diagnostic model with emphasis on the red flag signs. A simple way to achieve this is a checklist. The aim of the study was to propose a diagnostic checklist for patients presenting with vertigo to an ENT clinic to aid diagnosis and prevent diagnostic errors.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> A diagnostic checklist was used in all patients who presented with the symptom of vertigo, necessary tests were conducted and referrals were done when required. </p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> Out of eighty-five patients who presented with symptom of dizziness to ENT clinic, all patients received a definitive diagnosis treatment plan with the help of checklist.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> Checklist is an effective way to ensure elaborate assessment of the patient with emphasis on the red flag signs. It is a very important tool to arrive at diagnosis and formulate treatment plan.</p>