The study was conducted on 1187 severely injured patients employing a randomised controlled trial that was used to measure the effect of real-time, computer prompted, evidence-based algorithms on algorithm deviation and error occurrence during trauma resuscitation. Computer assisted video audit allowed objective identification of algorithm deviation and error.
The results of the study showed that computer aided decision support for Medical and Nursing Trauma Teams improved protocol compliance and significantly decreased errors of omission during the initial resuscitation of major trauma patients. This world first study demonstrated that computer-aided decision support reduced errors during the initial resuscitation of major trauma patients. Shock management errors were reduced by 26% and the need for blood transfusion was significantly reduced (p<0.0001).
Related Publications
Algorithm-Based Decision Support System Guides Trauma Staff During Initial Treatment, Leading to Fewer Medical Errors
Fitzgerald M, Gocentas G, Dziukas L, Cameron P, Mackenzie C, Farrow N. Using video audit to improve trauma resuscitation – time for a new approach. Can J Surg, June 2006;49(3):208-11
Fitzgerald M, Bystrzycki A, Farrow N, Cameron P, Kossmann T, Sugrue M, Mackenzie CF. Trauma Reception & Resuscitation. ANZ J Surg, 2006:76(8):725 -28
Mackenzie CF, Xiao Y, Hu F, Seagull J, Fitzgerald M. Video as a Tool for Improving Tracheal Intubation Tasks for Emergency Medical and Trauma Care. Ann Em Med. 2007 Oct;50(4):436-442
Fitzgerald M, Mackenzie CF, Marasco S, Hoyle R, Kossmann T. Pleural Decompression and Drainage during Trauma Reception and Resuscitation. Injury 2008 Jan:39;9-20
Fitzgerald M, Farrow N, Scicluna P, Murray A, Xiao Y, Mackenzie CF. Challenges to Real-Time Decision Support in Health Care. Chapter in - Henriksen K, Battles JB, Keyes MA, Grady ML, editors. Advances in patient safety: New directions and alternative approaches. Vol. 2. Culture and Redesign. AHRQ Publication No. 08-0034-2. Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; August 2008
Bernstein D, Fitzgerald M. How long does it take to perform critical interventions during trauma resuscitation? Injury, Volume 40, Supplement 1, February 2009, Pages S12-S13
Fitzgerald M. Trauma reception and resuscitation project. Injury, Volume 40, Supplement 1, February 2009, Page S15
Evans SM, Murray A, Patrick I, Fitzgerald M, Smith S, Andrianopoulos N, Cameron P. Assessing clinical handover between paramedics and the trauma team. Injury online 6 September 2009.
