Dropping the Baton During the Handoff from Emergency Department to Primary Care: Pediatric Asthma Continuity Errors

摘要: Article-at-a-Glance Background The handoff of patient care from emergent to primary physicians (PCPs) has been associated with critical safety problems, especially for children chronic diseases. Continuity-of-information (COI) errors occur when relevant information is not transmitted effectively. Follow-up a recommended visit or telephone contact does take place prescribed. A study was undertaken assess the COI and follow-up between tertiary pediatric emergency department (ED) PCPs patients seeking acute asthma treatment. Methods Paper charts were reviewed evidence continuity within directed five-day period after an exacerbation as in national guidelines. Results Three-hundred fifty ED visits by attending these community health centers identified. In 132 (37.7%) records, there no patient's record (faxed discharge note handwritten provider). 219 (62.6%), faxed and/or provider present. Illegibility did contribute errors. There recorded 218 (62.3%) charts, 11 (3.1%) indicated appointments scheduled but missed. documented remaining 121 (34.6%) charts—109 (31.1%) clinic 12 (3.4%) phone follow-up. Discussion More often than not, appeared know that their sought medical exacerbations. majority follow up providers. electronically automated reliable ways sharing may diminish thereby improve safety.