Emergency department asthma guideline adherence, 72-h return rates and disposition trends: Comparing data 10 years apart

Abstract

Objective: (1) To compare adherence of Ministry of Health Singapore Guidelines of Acute Asthma in the emergency department, in data 10 years apart, and ascertain if any difference observed impacted 72-h return rates and (2) to describe enhancement in hospital and community medical services for asthma, and its effect on disposition trends. Methods: A retrospective comparison in guideline adherence with regard to systemic steroids administration, anti-cholinergic administration in moderately severe exacerbations and patient education in discharged patients was done. Rates of unscheduled 72-h returns were compared. A description of new community and hospital services was described, and disposition trends were compared. Results In total, 630 patients 10 years ago and 635 patients in the current year were studied, after exclusions and systematic sampling applied. Steroid administration improved by 29% (adjusted p < 0.001). Steroids started in the emergency department improved by 43% (adjusted p < 0.001). Ipratropium addition to second nebulizer improved by 63% (adjusted p < 0.001). Patient education improved by 66% (adjusted p < 0.001). Unscheduled 72-h returns rate were unchanged at 4.2% (adjusted p = 0.912). Although there was no significant difference in the admission and discharge disposition (adjusted p = 0.173), there was a trend towards admission to the short stay unit as an admission option and referral to the primary healthcare provider for discharged patients. Conclusion: Although guideline adherence improved in the current year, rates of 72-h unscheduled returns were similar. Disposition trends reflected emphasis and availability of healthcare services in the community and hospital.