Trauma Resuscitation Errors and Computer-assisted Decision Support

Abstract

This prospective, randomized, controlled interventional study evaluated the effect of real-time, computer-prompted, evidence-based decision and action algorithms on error occurrence during initial resuscitation of trauma patients between January 24, 2006 and February 25, 2008 at a level I adult trauma center in Melbourne, Australia. There, four trauma resuscitation bays were equipped with identical resuscitation equipment, layout, and trauma teams. Two of the trauma rooms (the study arm) were equipped with computerized equipment that provided aid in decisions and management.