Did state COVID-19 stay-home orders influence the trauma population? A level-1 trauma center retrospective cohort study.

Abstract

The governor of Tennessee issued an order on March 30, 2020, directing Tennesseans to stay home in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent studies demonstrated a decrease in emergency department (ED) visits and in trauma during the pandemic. We wanted to see the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the East Tennessee trauma population presentation patterns and outcomes. The trauma population at an American College of Surgeons-verified Level-I trauma center in East Tennessee was examined 6 months before and after the stay-home executive order was issued. The data examined included demographic information, patient disposition, complications, and mortality. 7,587 patients were reviewed, with 3,509 (46.3%) patients presenting prior to shelter in place vs 4,078 (53.7%) patients presenting after shelter in place. Following stay-home orders, the trauma population was younger (54.55 vs 51.85, p = .001) and more likely to be male (p = .016). There was a higher rate of penetrating injuries post the stay-home order (p = .001). Patients were more likely to be admitted from the ED (65.4% vs 65.9%, p = .009) and less likely to be discharged home from the ED (30.3% vs 29.3%, p = .009). Admitted patients were less likely to be discharged to a skilled nursing facility (15.4% vs. 10.3%, p < .001) and more likely to be discharged home with services (6.5% vs 10.4%, p < .001). There was no difference in mortality between groups. Trauma volume was sustained during the pandemic. Demographics and dispositions were statistically different. Penetrating trauma increased following stay-home orders, which may prompt preventative measures in future pandemics. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)