The development and evaluation of an evidence-based guideline programme to improve care in a paediatric emergency department

Abstract

A programme for guideline development and implementation helped to improve efficiency, and standardise and eliminate disparities in emergency care without jeopardising patient outcomes.

Implementing an Electronic Medical Record–Based Reminder for Cardiovascular Risk Screening in Rheumatoid Arthritis

“…Health care institutions can improve performance on these indicators by measuring and reporting the CVD risk screening rates in patients with RA. Although reminders and/or decision support tools have been cited as an effective strategy for raising awareness about the recommendations of guidelines , our study suggests that electronic reminders are not sufficient.…”

Variation in Pediatric Procedural Sedations Across Children’s Hospital Emergency Departments

“…Evidence-based guidelines (EBGs) have been a successful strategy to enable pediatric EDs to provide more consistent care to patients. 34 These have been used for many indications in pediatrics, including bronchiolitis 35 and head injury, 36 leading to a reduction in the amount of variability in management of children. Authors of EBGs for the use of procedural sedation should outline inclusion and exclusion criteria, taking into account the type and severity of injury as well as patient-specific medical and psychosocial factors.…”

Reducing Hospitalization Rates for Children With Anaphylaxis

“…Over the course of the year before initiation of the anaphylaxis guideline, several guidelines were developed and implemented via a structured process. 18 Performance data were provided to clinicians on a regular basis, and this approach served to support a culture of improvement. Divisional leadership approved the development of the anaphylaxis EBG and endorsed its specific recommendations.…”