Influenza and Emergency Departments: How Influenza Season Severity Affects Emergency Department Length of Visit 公开
Dean, Delaney (Spring 2019)
Published
Abstract
Background: Influenza season severity and emergency department length of visit (ED-LOV) are both issues of concern to EDs; however, very little work has been done linking them to each other. This study aims to understand the association between influenza season severity and ED-LOV, as well as quantify ED-LOV for a given influenza season severity.
Methods: The analysis utilized data from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS) on ED-LOV, dates, and demographic characteristics from 2003-2015. Influenza season severity was defined using definitions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Linear regression, both unadjusted and adjusted, using complex survey design methods was conducted to examine associations between influenza season severity and ED-LOV.
Results: Influenza season severity was significantly related to ED-LOV (p-value < .0001), with low influenza severity seasons showing the largest increase in wait time compared to non-influenza season (3.5% increase; 95% CI: .45, 6.60; p-value: .0244). ED-LOV was also significantly increased for women, those age 65 and over, and those with Medicare.
Discussion: When considering how to properly staff an ED to lower wait times, ED-LOV should not be considered in isolation from influenza season severity. Results from the study, particularly the discovery that low severity seasons have the longest ED-LOV, should lead hospitals and EDs to consider investing in surge capacity measures during influenza season, regardless of influenza severity.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Abstract …………………………………………………………………………………...1
Background……………………………………………………………………..................2
Methods……………………………………………………………………………............4
Results……………………………………………………………………………..............7
Discussion……………………………………………………………………………......10
Tables…………………………………………………………………………….............14
References………………………………………………………………………….........18
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