Introduction: Children account for a low proportion of paramedic transports. Evidence suggests that many pediatric transports are of low acuity, but there are few studies comparing these patients to those that self-present to the ED. Our primary objective was to determine if illness severity was associated with presentation by ambulance among pediatric patients. Methods: We undertook a single centre, retrospective cohort study at a tertiary care pediatric centre. All patients presenting to the ED in 2015 by any route other than air ambulance were eligible. Patients were divided into two groups based on the route of presentation – ambulance or self-presentation. The primary outcome was disposition decision; the secondary outcome was CTAS level. To determine whether patient discharge disposition or CTAS was associated with the method of arrival, we conducted generalized estimating equations (GEE) to account for correlation within patients with multiple ED visits. Results: Of the 69,092 visits, 69,034 were eligible and analyzed. Of those, 4478 (6.5%) arrived by ambulance, while 64,556 (93.5) self-presented. Those arriving by ambulance had a median age of 10 years [IQR: 2-5 years] vs. 4 years [IQR: 1.75-10 years] in the self-presenting group and were 52.6% male (vs. 52.8%). Two percent of the ambulance cohort were admitted to the ICU (vs. 0.2%), and 16.6% were admitted to the ward (vs. 5%). Patients presenting by ambulance had higher CTAS scores – 5.3% CTAS 1 (vs. 0.3%), 16.4% CTAS 2 (vs. 7.0%), 61.2% CTAS 3 (vs. 45.8%), and 17.1% CTAS 4-5 (vs. 46.9%). The odds of arriving by ambulance were 10.2 x higher for patients admitted to the ICU (OR = 10.2, 95%CI: 7.9 to 13.3) vs. those discharged home. The odds of arriving by ambulance were 64.2 x (OR = 64.2, 95% CI: 48.6 to 84.7) higher for patients CTAS 1 patients vs. CTAS 5 patients. The top 3 complaints among ambulance patients were neurological (22.5%), respiratory (22.7%), and orthopaedic (11.3%). Among self-presenting patients, the top three were general/minor (20.4%), respiratory (16.4%), and gastrointestinal (14.3%). Conclusion: Children presenting to the ED via ambulance are at higher risk for admission to the ward and critical care unit. It is important that paramedics have sufficient training to ensure adequate skills to manage critically ill children. Given the low proportion but higher severity of illness of pediatric transports, further research and consideration must be given to how best to enable paramedics in the management of children.

Introduction: As part of our audit and feedback process, Emergency Physicians (EP) are provided feedback on flow metrics and resource utilization. We analysed the relationship between two specific metrics (adjusted workload measurement (AWM), with the number of patients seen per hour adjusted according to CTAS, and percentage of revisits within 72 hours and diagnostic imaging use. Unfortunately, we are unable to evaluate quality of care, nor appropriateness of DI indication at this stage. Methods: We used data from 86 physicians at an academic ED, from June 1, 2015 to May31, 2017. The Data Envelope Analysis (DEA) model incorporated performance quality measures as outputs and efficiency measures as inputs. DEA is a method widely used in physician performance analysis. The method provides a score (optimal performance efficiency-OPE) for each EP based on maximization of the performance (AWM) in proportion to the combination of efficient use of resources, diagnostic imaging (DI). The score was used to regress against demographic characteristics and training. Results: The median AWM was 6.8 (quartiles Q1-Q3 = 6.4-7.4) with the median diagnostic imaging use of percentages of CT (median = 10.1, 8.6-11.9), US (median = 4.7, 3.6-5.6) and x-ray (80, 74-84). The EPs who had highest AWM combined with least use of DI (OPE = 100%), provided median AWM of 9.1 (range 8.9-9.7) with percentage CT, US and x-ray medians at 5.8% (range 5.8-6.2), 2.7% (range 2.4-3.6) and 59% (range 59-72). These provided benchmarks for optimal performance indicators. We found statistically significant differences of OPE scores based on gender (men 4.1 times higher, p < 0.001) and degree (RCPS < CCFPEM, Other < CCFPEM, p < 0.001). Overall AWM diminishes at the rate of 14% (95%CI: 9-20%) for a combination of 100 DI tests ordered. In order to reach the optimal level of performance, to reach an OPE of 100%, the median CT use percentage needs to be reduced by 6% (quartile range 3.9- 7.7%), US by 2.2% (quartile range 1.5-3.4%) and x-rays by 37.2% (quartile range: 26.8-44.3%). Return visit rates were not associated with DI use, possibly due to homogeneity in the percentage of return visits. Conclusion: We found significant performance variations in terms of average workload measurement in proportion to the weighted average of diagnostic imaging use, with increased use of DI being associated with decreasing AWM. Percentage of return visits does not appear to be useful as a performance indicator.

Introduction: Inhaled low dose methoxyflurane (MEOF) was recently approved in Canada for the short-term relief of moderate to severe acute pain associated with trauma or interventional medical procedures in conscious adult patients. ADVANCE-ED is an ongoing phase IV, prospective open label study undertaken to generate real-world evidence to complement the global clinical development program through evaluation of the effectiveness of low dose MEOF in Canadian emergency departments (EDs). Methods: This multi-centre study is enrolling adult (≥18 yrs) patients with moderate to severe acute pain (NRS0-10 ≥ 4) associated with minor trauma. To address limitations from the pivotal study, this study allows patients who were excluded in the pivotal trials: namely, those with severe (≥7) pain, and those using OTC or stably dosed analgesics for other conditions, including chronic pain. Eligible patients receive a single treatment of up to 2 x 3 mL MEOF (2nd 3 mL to be provided only upon request), self-administered by the patient under medical supervision. Rescue medication is permitted at any time, if required. Results: Here we describe the patient demographics and treatment satisfaction (Global Medication Performance, GMP) at 50% enrolment (n = 49). Mean (SD) patient age is 48.0 (17.1) yrs and 55.1% are female. Mean pain (SD) reported at enrolment is 8.3 (1.5), with 73.4% of patients with NRS0-10 ≥ 8. Injuries are overwhelmingly limb trauma (87.8%). The most common type is sprain/strain (40.8%), followed by fracture (32.7%). At 5 minutes post-start of administration (STA) of MEOF, 80.4% of patients reported pain relief; this increased to 91.3% at 15 minutes, and 100% of patients reported pain relief by 30 minutes post-STA. GMP was assessed as “good”, “very good” or “excellent” by ≥80% of patients both 20 minutes post-start of administration (STA) of MEOF (83.3%) and at discharge (85.8%). When asked to what extent their expectation of pain relief had been met, 32.7% responded good, 26.5% responded “very good” and 22.4% responded “excellent”. Three quarters of enrolled patients (75.5%) did not require rescue medication. The most common (≥5%) treatment-related adverse events were dizziness (n = 14, 28.6%) and euphoric mood (n = 4, 8.2%). No serious adverse events have been reported. Conclusion: Based on 50% of the patients enrolled in this prospective, open label study, responses to inhaled low-dose MEOF are within expectation for both effectiveness and tolerability.

Introduction: Geriatric Emergency Department (ED) guidelines recommend systematic screening of older patients for geriatric syndromes. However, compliance issues to this recommendation have already been observed. Self-assessment tools could be an interesting solution as self-assessed general, mental and physical health was shown to be predictive of functional decline and mortality. The Older Americans Resources and Services scale (OARS), is a simple geriatric functional assessment scale that is widely used by professionals to quantify patients’ ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). However, its use as a self-assessment tool has never been tested. Objective: to evaluate the feasibility of the self-assessed OARS compared to its standard administration by a research assistant (RA) in older ED patients. Methods: A planned sub-analysis of a single center randomized crossover pilot study in 2018 was realized. Patients aged ≥65 who consulted to the ED for any medical reason were included. Patients were excluded if they: 1) required resuscitation (CTAS 1); 2) were unable to consent/to speak French; 3) had a physical condition preventing the use of an electronic tablet. Patients were randomized 1:1 to either 1) tablet-based functional status self-assessment or 2) the RAs questionnaire administration at first, after which they crossed-over to the other assessment method. Paired t-tests were used to assess the score differences. Results: 60 patients were included. Mean age was 74.4 ± 7.6 and 34 (56.7%) participants were women. Mean OARS score according to RA was 25.1 ± 3.3 and mean self-assessed OARS score was 26.4 ± 2.5 (p < 0.0001). There was also differences when looking at the AVQ and AIVQ separately. Mean AVQ scores were 12.5 ± 1.8 and 13.5 ± 0.9 (p < 0.0001) and mean AIVQ scores were 12.6 ± 1.8 and 12.9 ± 1.8 (p = 0.04) for RA assessment and self-assessment, respectively. Conclusion: Our results show a statistically significant difference between RA assessment and patient self-assessment of functional status, and this difference seems to be more pronounced regarding AVQ than AIVQ. The study confirms that self-assessment of functional status by older ED patients is feasible, but further testing is required in order to confirm the validity and psychometric values of this self-administered version of the OARS.

Introduction: Naloxone is recommended for reversing opioid-associated respiratory depression. There is wide variability in emergency department (ED) practice patterns regarding naloxone use, dosing, and observation time post-administration. This study describes the naloxone practice patterns of ED physicians managing suspected opioid overdose patients. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of adult patients (≥ 18 years) presenting to an academic tertiary care centre (consisting of two EDs with an annual census 150,000 visits) in 2017 with suspected opioid overdose who were administered naloxone in the ED. Patients were identified electronically and the following information was abstracted from patient charts: demographics, naloxone dosage and infusion initiation, disposition data, indications for naloxone administration, response to therapy, and adverse effects. Variability in initial and total dose was examined. Initial dose was also compared in those with cardiorespiratory compromise (CPR given, respiratory rate < 8, or desaturation below 89%) using independent samples median tests. Data was analyzed using standard descriptive statistics. Results: 113 patients met inclusion criteria. Indications for naloxone administration were: level of consciousness (50.5%), respiratory depression (4.0%), miosis (1.0%), a combination of factors (19.8%), or undocumented (24.8%). Median initial dose was 0.40 mg (IQR: 0.20-0.40 mg). Median total naloxone administered in the ED was 0.48 mg (IQR: 0.35-1.2 mg). The initial dose resulted in a response in 43.1% of patients, with 36.0% of responding patients later experiencing subsequent respiratory depression. 31% of patients received a naloxone infusion. Initial dose in patients with cardiopulmonary compromise was significantly different only comparing patients who received CPR versus those who did not (median 0.40 mg; IQR: 0.20-0.80 mg; P = 0.019). Four patients experienced emesis following naloxone. Median length of ED stay was 7.0 hours (IQR: 4.0-9.5 hours), and median hospital length of stay was 3.0 days (IQR: 1.0-5.0 days). Median ED observation time prior to discharge was 4.0 hours (IQR: 2.0-8.0 hours). Ultimate disposition home, to the ward, or to the intensive care unit was 47.1%, 42.2%, and 9.8% respectively (1.0% deceased). Conclusion: The dose and usage of naloxone by ED physicians in this study is variable. Further prospective studies are needed to determine the effective naloxone dosing strategy.

Background: Emergency Department overcrowding remains a significant problem. Interventions have often focused on areas external to the ED, with patient flow in the ED receiving less attention. Efforts to address ED flow are complicated by daily fluctuations in patient volume and acuity. Our local protocol brings in additional physicians when internal metrics indicate patient demand can't be met by current physician resources (a ‘surge’ period). However, anecdotal evidence suggests a lack of satisfaction and efficacy. We therefore undertook a project to improve our local management of these surge periods. Aim Statement: To improve the effectiveness of an ED Physician Surge Protocol to allow for a physician scheduling strategy that is reflective of the needs of the ED. Measures & Design: This project consists of 3 phases. Phase 1 was an analysis of current surge metrics (including frequency, temporal patterns and physician response), with concurrent literature search to identify any best practices or easily addressable protocol changes, with first planned PDSA cycle. Phase 2 is a mixed methods survey of local staff to identify barriers and enablers of our current protocol, concurrent with a national survey of current practices. Phase 3 will be the implementation of a revised protocol, followed by a second mixed methods survey and analysis of metrics of interest. Evaluation/Results: Analysis of surge data (Oct 2018-Oct 2019) demonstrated a high volume of surges per month (78.7 +/- 10.9), highest at Foothills Medical Centre (94.3). Across all sites, afternoon periods had highest frequency of surges (absolute peak 1400 - 1500) with a secondary peak 2200–2300, both peaks occurring most frequently on weekends (Fri-Sun) However, physician response to surge calls was < 10% (5.8-9.1%), with no discernable temporal pattern, even accounting for the significant number of automatic surge calls cancelled by clinicians. Analysis of data, in addition to literature review and engagement with senior administration suggested no immediate protocol changes, therefore project moved to 2nd phase. This phase is currently in progress, with planned analysis using Pareto Chart methodology. Discussion/Impact: Our initial data clearly demonstrates that current procedures are inadequate to address this ongoing issue, with no readily apparent solutions. Analysis of local barriers and enablers is currently underway, in addition to a national survey, with the results expected to inform an extensive redesign of current procedures.

Innovation Concept: In the era of the current opioid crisis, addiction medicine is becoming a core competency of patient care. Despite the prevalence of addiction-related presentations, there is a paucity of formal education on the topic in emergency medicine; with time and lack of qualified staff cited as barriers to implementation. We aimed to correct this gap in education through the curriculum design of an addictions elective that can be easily implemented by Emergency Medicine Program Directors across Canada. Methods: Learning objectives were developed based on expert consensus and the list of entrustable professional activities (EPAs) mandated by the Royal College. A local needs assessment was conducted to identify existing addictions curriculum and identify opportunities for improvement. Curriculum, Tool, or Material: A one-month block addictions selective was developed specifically for emergency medicine residents. Elements of this curriculum included a suggested schedule, a list of supplemental resources, and an evaluation tool to track EPAs. A pre and post survey was created for distribution to all participants to track knowledge acquisition and to collect feedback on the education intervention. In the 2019-2020 academic year, 4 residents participated in this selective and multiple have expressed interest for the future. Conclusion: In Ontario alone, the rate of opioid-related deaths has quadrupled and has escalated to a rate of 2 deaths every day. Alcohol and other substance use is commonly a chief concern, catalyst, or comorbidity for patient presentations in the emergency department. Our selective curriculum seeks to address a gap for emergency medicine residents. Ongoing program evaluation will take place to continue to optimize this learning experience.

Innovation Concept: Video has been proven to be an effective educational tool that is valued by learners and objectively improves knowledge and testing scores. It can simplify complex concepts and is more efficient and effective than audio or reading in tests of 3-day material recall. Our objective in this project was to develop a series of instructional videos geared towards emergency and family physicians on proper application of casts and splints in the emergency department. Methods: We created two procedural videos, each 5-6 minutes long. They each reviewed the process, indications, and precise steps for application for each of two splints: the ulnar gutter and the thumb spica. After finalizing the videos, we created a survey to assess feedback, asking questions about the applicability of the videos to the viewer's clinical practice, how interesting they found the content of the videos, what they liked and disliked, and how willing they would be to access future procedural videos if we were to make them. We also had respondents provide suggestions for topics of future videos. We then sent the videos and accompanying survey to a group of McMaster University medical students, residents, and attending physicians in family medicine and emergency medicine. Upon reviewed the results it seemed that there was a large difference in perceived utility of the videos between attending physicians and trainees, and so we proceeded with subgroup analysis of trainees and staff. Curriculum, Tool, or Material: Orthopedic procedural videos as described above. Conclusion: Using a 5-point Likert scale, we found that overall trainees (4.3, SD 0.76 CI 0.41) found the videos more useful and interesting than did attending physicians (3.4, SD 0.68 CI 0.37), with respondents commenting that they were very clear and easy to follow for junior trainees. Most respondents also indicated that they would access future videos we made (4.2 SD 0.74 CI 0.39 for trainees, 3.2 SD 0.65 SI 0.34) for attendings). Future directions include making the videos more concise and adding more visual summaries to improve viewership, and targeting videos for specific learner level. We are hoping to implement these videos into future curriculum development for our learners and, if successful, other Emergency Medicine residency programs across Canada.

Introduction: Extreme heat events due to climate change are becoming increasingly frequent and severe, and may have an impact on human health. Administrative database studies using International Classification of Diseases 10th revision codes (ICD-10) are powerful tools to measure the burden of acute heat illness (AHI) in Canada. We aimed to assess the validity of the coding algorithm for emergency department (ED) encounters for AHI in our region. Methods: Two independent reviewers retrospectively abstracted data from 507 medical records of patients presenting at two EDs in Ontario between May-September 2015-2018. The Gold Standard definition of an AHI is chart-documented heat exposure with a heat related complaint, such as syncope while working outdoors on a hot day. To determine ICD coding algorithm positive predictive value (PPV), records that were previously coded as ICD-10 heat illnesses were compared to the Gold Standard for AHI. To determine sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp) and negative predictive values (NPV), the Gold Standard was compared to randomly selected records. A total of 326,702 ED visits were included in study period with 208 having an ICD-10 code related to heat illness. Sample size calculation demonstrated a need to manually review 62 previously coded heat illnesses and 931 random cases, of which 50 and 474 have been reviewed, respectively. In both abstractions, 20% of cases underwent a blinded duplicate review. Results: In our review of 474 random records, 2 cases were identified as AHI but without an appropriate ICD-10 code, 445 were not AHIs, and no cases had been identified as having an AHI ICD-10 inappropriately applied. In our review of 50 previously coded heat illnesses, 34 were found to be appropriately coded and 16 inappropriately coded, as AHI ICD-10. Average patient age and gender of heat illness vs non-heat illness ED presentations were 32 and 48 years of age and 49% and 64% male, respectively. The leading complaint in AHI was heat stroke/exhaustion (39%), followed by headaches (15%), dizziness (9%), shortness of breath (9%) and syncope/presyncope (6%). 76% of all heat illness presentations presented following a period of physical exertion. Conclusion: Final calculation of Sn, Sp, PPV, NPV for the algorithm will occur upon completion of the review. Preliminary results suggest that ICD-10 coding for AHI may be applied correctly in the ED. This study will help to determine if administrative data can accurately be used to measure the burden of heat illness in Canada.

Introduction: Prehospital field trauma triage (FTT) standards were reviewed and revised in 2014 based on the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The FTT standard allows a hospital bypass and direct transport, within 30 min, to a lead trauma hospital (LTH). Our objectives were to assess the impact of the newly introduced prehospital FTT standard and to describe the emergency department (ED) management and outcomes of patients that had bypassed closer hospitals. Methods: We conducted a 12-month multi-centred health record review of paramedic and ED records following the implementation of the 4 step FTT standard (step 1: vital signs and level of consciousness (physiologic), step 2: anatomical injury, step 3: mechanism and step 4: special considerations) in nine paramedic services across Eastern Ontario. We included adult trauma patients transported as urgent that met FTT standard, regardless of transport time. We developed and piloted a data collection tool and obtained consensus on all definitions. The primary outcome was the rate of appropriate triage to a LTH which was defined as: ISS ≥12, admitted to intensive care unit (ICU), non-orthopedic surgery, or death. We have reported descriptive statistics. Results: 570 patients were included: mean age 48.8, male 68.9%, falls 29.6%, motor vehicle collisions 20.2%, stab wounds 10.5%, transported to a LTH 76.5% (n = 436). 72.2% (n = 315) of patients transported to a LTH had bypassed a closer hospital and 126/306 (41.2%) of those were determined to be an appropriate triage to LTH (9 patients had missing outcomes). ED management included: CT head/cervical spine 69.9%, ultrasound 53.6%, xray 51.6%, intubation 15.0%, sedation 11.1%, tranexamic acid 9.8%, blood transfusion 8.2%, fracture reduction 6.9%, tube thoracostomy 5.9%. Outcomes included: ISS ≥ 12 32.7%, admitted to ICU 15.0%, non-orthopedic surgery 11.1%, death 8.8%. Others included: admission to hospital 57.5%, mean LOS 12.8 days, orthopedic surgery 16.3% and discharged from ED 37.3%. Conclusion: Despite a high number of admissions, the majority of trauma patients bypassed to a LTH were considered over-triaged, with a low number of ED procedures and non-orthopedic surgeries. Continued work is needed to appropriately identify patients requiring transport to a LTH.

Introduction: Distal radial fractures (DRF) remain the most commonly encountered fracture in the Emergency Department (ED). The initial management of displaced DRFs by Emergency Physicians (EP) poses considerable resource allocation. We wished to determine the adequacy of reduction, both initially and at follow up. This data updates previously presented high level findings. Methods: We performed a mixed-methods study including patients who underwent procedural sedation and manipulation by an EP for a DRF. Radiological images performed at initial assessment, post-reduction, and clinic follow up were reviewed by a panel of orthopedic surgeons and radiologists blinded to outcomes, and assessed for evidence of displacement. Demographic data were pooled from patient records and included in statistical analysis. Results: Seventy patients were included and had follow-up completed. Initial reduction was deemed to be adequate in 37 patients (53%; 95% CI 41.32 to 64.10%). At clinic follow-up assessment, 26 reductions remained adequate; a slippage rate of 30% (95% CI of 17.37 to 45.90). Overall 7 patients (10%; 95% CI 4.65 to 19.51%) required revision of the initial reduction in the operating room. Agreement on adequacy of reduction on post-reduction radiographs between radiologists and orthopedic surgeons was 38.6% (95% CI -38.3 to -7.4, Kappa -0.229). The statistical strength of this agreement is worse than what would be expected by chance alone. There was no association found between age, sex, or of time of initial presentation and final outcomes. Conclusion: Although blinded review by specialists determined only half of initial EP DRF reductions to be radiographically adequate, only 10 percent actually required further intervention. Agreement between specialists on adequacy was poor. The majority of DRFs reduced by EPs do not require further surgical intervention.

Introduction: Medicine demands a sacrifice of physicians’ personal life, but culture has slowly changed towards valuing a balanced work life. Parental leave is linked to better physical and mental health, but policies and culture surrounding parental leave are largely unstudied in the Canadian Emergency Medicine landscape. Anecdotally, experiences vary widely. This study was designed to determine what proportion of Canadian Emergency Departments have formal parental leave policies (maternity, paternity, and other ex. adoption) and what proportion of Canadian EM physicians are satisfied with their department's parental leave policies. Methods: Two surveys were generated; one to assess attitudes and experiences of emergency physicians, and a second survey for department chiefs assessed the policies and their features. These were approved by the UBC REB and distributed through the CAEP Research Committee. Primary outcomes were physician satisfaction with their department's parental leave policy (4-5/5 Likert Scale), and departments with a formal parental leave policy (Y/N). Results: 38% (8/21) of department chiefs reported having a formal policy for maternity leave, 29% (6/21) for paternity leave, and 24% (5/21) other. The survey of Emergency Physicians revealed similar rates at 48% (90/187) maternity, 40% (70/184) paternity, 29% (53/181) other. Among physicians who were aware of them, 69% (62/90) were somewhat or very satisfied with the maternity leave policies, 58% (51/88) with paternity leave policies, and 48% (39/81) with other parental leave. Less than 10% were somewhat or very dissatisfied with any of these. Several department chiefs commented that they had never refused anyone parental leave, but have no formal policy. However, 87% (147/187) of physicians reported a formal maternity leave policy was somewhat or very important to them; similarly 80% (134/187) paternity leave. Less than 15% felt each was somewhat or extremely unimportant. Conclusion: Presence and type of parental leave policy varies across the country. Most physicians were satisfied with the support they had available, but the vast majority felt that a formal maternity and paternity leave policy itself was important. This study would suggest that, without actually changing practice, the introduction of a formal parental leave policy is of value. Our research group will use this data to collaborate on a template parental leave policy to be made available for this purpose.

Background: Emergency department (ED) overcrowding is associated with a broad spectrum of poor medical outcomes, including medical errors, mortality, higher rates of leaving without being seen, and reduced patient and physician satisfaction. The largest contributor to overcrowding is access block – the inability of admitted patients to access in-patient beds from the ED. One component to addressing access block involves streamlining the decision process to rapidly determine which hospital service will admit the patient. Aim Statement: As of Sep 2011, admission algorithms at our institution were supported and formalised. The pancreatitis algorithm clarified whether general surgery or internal medicine would admit ED patients with pancreatitis. We hypothesize that this prior uncertainty delayed the admission decision and prolonged ED length of stay (LOS) for patients with pancreatitis. Our project evaluates whether implementing a pancreatitis admission algorithm at our institution reduced ED time to disposition (TTD) and LOS. Measures & Design: A retrospective review was conducted in a tertiary care academic hospital in Montreal for all adult ED patients diagnosed with pancreatitis from Apr 2010 to Mar 2014. The data was used to plot separate run charts for ED TTD and LOS. Serial measurements of each outcome were used to monitor change and evaluate for special cause variation. The mean ED LOS and TTD before and after algorithm implementation were also compared using the Student's t test. Evaluation/Results: Over four years, a total of 365 ED patients were diagnosed with pancreatitis and 287 (79%) were admitted. The mean ED LOS for patients with pancreatitis decreased following the implementation of an admission algorithm (1616 vs. 1418 mins, p = 0.05). The mean ED TTD was also reduced (1171 vs. 899 mins, p = 0.0006). A non-random signal of change was suggested by a shift above the median prior to algorithm implementation and one below the median following. Discussion/Impact: This project demonstrates that in a busy tertiary care academic hospital, an admission algorithm helped reduce ED TTD and LOS for patients with pancreatitis. This proves especially valuable when considering the potential applicability of such algorithms to other disease processes, such as gastrointestinal bleeding and congestive heart failure, among others. Future studies demonstrating this external applicability, and the impact of such decision algorithms on physician decision fatigue and within non-academic institutions, proves warranted.

Introduction: Hyperkalemia is a common electrolyte disturbance associated with morbidity and mortality. Commonly used therapies for hyperkalemia include IV calcium, sodium bicarbonate, insulin, beta-adrenergic agents, ion-exchange resins, diuretics and hemodialysis. This study aims to evaluate which treatments are more commonly used to treat hyperkalemia and to examine factors which influence those clinical decisions. Methods: This is a retrospective chart review of all cases of hyperkalemia encountered in 2017 at a Canadian adult ED. Potassium values were classified as mild (5.5 - 6.5 mEq/L), moderate (>6.5 - 7.5 mEq/L) and severe (>7.5 mEq/L). Treatment choices were then recorded and matched to hemodynamic stability, degree of hyperkalemia and ECG findings. More statistical methods to test correlation between treatment and specific variables will be performed over the next 2 months, including logistic regression to highlight potential determinants of treatment and Chi-square tests to verify randomness and to construct 95% confidence intervals. Results: 1867 ED visits were identified, of which 479 met the inclusion criteria. 89.1% of hyperkalemia cases were mild, 8.2% were moderate, and 2.7% were severe. IV insulin was used in 22.1% of cases, followed by Kayexalate in 20.5%, sodium bicarbonate in 12.3%, IV calcium in 9.4%, frusemide in 7.3%, salbutamol in 2.7%, and dialysis in 1.9%. Moderate and severe hyperkalemia were associated with higher use of insulin (79.5% and 64.3% respectively), IV calcium (41% and 64.3% respectively), sodium bicarbonate (56.4% and 85.7% respectively). Bradycardia was associated with higher insulin and IV calcium use (46.7% and 33.3% respectively). Hypotension was associated with a similar increase in use of insulin and IV calcium (34.2% and 23.7% respectively). There were only 15 cases of cardiac arrest in which sodium bicarbonate and IV calcium were more frequently used (80% and 60% respectively). Conclusion: This study demonstrates variability in the ED management of hyperkalemia. We found that Insulin and Kayexalate were the 2 most common interventions, with degree of hyperkalemia, bradycardia and hypotension influencing rates of treatment. Overuse of kayexalate for emergent treatment of hyperkalemia is evident despite weak supporting evidence. Paradoxically, beta adrenergic agents were underutilized despite their rapid effect and safer profile. The development of a widely accepted guideline may help narrow the differences in practice and potentially improve outcomes.

Innovation Concept: Upon completion of training, Canadian physicians are expected to respond to patient needs to advocate for change both within and beyond the immediate clinical environment.1 In the current EM curriculum, residents are not explicitly taught skills necessary to engage in clinical care nor policy change that would improve the social determinants of health (SDOH) of patients. In response to this challenge, we have developed and are piloting a 2 year curriculum on “Equity, Diversity, Advocacy, and Cultural Safety (EDACS), to equip EM trainees with the knowledge and skills to advocate and influence policy - to empower residents to act on healthcare inequities rather than simply be aware of them. Methods: We developed the curriculum utilizing the Structural Competency paradigm, a theoretical framework within which clinical and advocacy skills to address the SDOH at a structural level can be taught and practiced. This paradigm includes five intersecting skill-sets, including recognizing the structures that shape clinical interactions, developing an extra-clinical language of structure, and imagining structural interventions. Curriculum, Tool, or Material: The educational intervention will consist of 8 hour-long sessions and one 3-hour long session held over a 2-year period. The 3-hour long session will consist of a walking tour of sites accessed by individuals living in poverty in the Toronto downtown core, including a homeless shelter, a needle exchange program, and others. This session will be facilitated by a physician lead, with input at each site from community organizers. Prior to the walking tour, residents will receive an introductory session outlining themes to reflect on during and after the walking tour. Hour-long sessions will be delivered by invited healthcare providers with specific clinical expertise in the topics of discussion, which will address the care of and advocacy for various marginalized populations. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first curriculum of its kind being implemented in an EM training program in Canada. Upon completion of the curriculum, students will be able to apply the five skillsets outlined in the Structural Competency Framework to address and improve upon inequitable conditions that influence patients treated in the emergency department. We intend to use formal and informal feedback from residents, clinicians, and lecturers to refine future curriculum cycles, and hope to inform similar programs elsewhere.

Introduction: Electronic medical records (EMR) have placed increasing demand on emergency physicians and may contribute to physician burnout and stress. The use of scribes to reduce workload and increase productivity in emergency departments (ED) has been reported. This objective of this study was to evaluate the educational and experiential value of scribing among medical and undergraduate students. We asked: “Will undergraduates be willing to scribe in exchange for clinical exposure and experience?”; and, “Should scribing be integrated into the medical school curriculum?” Methods: A mixed-methods model was employed. The study population included 5 undergraduate, and 5 medical students. Scribes received technical training on how to take physician notes. Undergraduate students were provided with optional resources to familiarize themselves with common medical terminology. Scribes were assigned to physicians based on availability. An exit interview and semi-structured interviews were conducted at the conclusion of the study. Interviews were transcribed and coded into thematic coding trees. A constructivist grounded theory approach was used to analyze the results. Themes were reviewed and verified by two members of the research team. Results: Undergraduate students preferred volunteering in the ED over other volunteer experiences (5/5); citing direct access to the medical field (5/5), demystification of the medical profession (4/5), resume building (5/5), and perceived value added to the health care team (5/5) as main motivators to continue scribing. Medical students felt scribing should be integrated into their curriculum (4/5) because it complemented their shadowing experience by providing unique value that shadowing did not. Based on survey results, five undergraduate students would be required to cover 40 volunteer hours per week. Conclusion: A student volunteer model of scribing is worthwhile to students and may be feasible; however, scribe availability, potentially high scribe turnover, and limited time to develop a rapport with their physician may impact any efficiency benefit scribes might provide. Importantly, scribing may be an invaluable experience for directing career goals and ensuring that students intrinsically interested in medicine pursue the profession. Medical students suggested that scribing could be added to the year one curriculum to help them develop a framework for how to take histories and manage patients.

Introduction: Acute pain represents one of the most common reasons for emergency department (ED) visits. In the opioid epidemic that North America faces, there is a significant demand for novel pain control modalities that are both safe and effective. Regional anesthesia techniques have revolutionized perioperative pain management, and they are currently thought to be indicated for acute pain relief in the ED. The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a novel regional block that has the ability to block multidermatomal sensation, including cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions, depending on the vertebral level at which the anesthetic is injected along the erector spinae muscle. Under ultrasound guidance, the landmarks involved are easy to identify, and there are no vital structures in the immediate vicinity of the site of injection. By reviewing the literature on ESPB, this review aims to summarize all its indications and efficacy for acute pain management in the ED. Methods: In April 2019, PUBMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE as well as CINAHL databases were systematically searched for articles discussing the use of ESPB in the ED. In compliance with the PRISMA guidelines, the search results were selected against inclusion and exclusion criteria. Due to the novelty of the block, all types of articles were included. Results: Ten studies on 7 different indications have been published on the use of ESPB in the ED. It is currently most commonly used for rib and spine fractures. Other indications include, mechanical back pain, burn injuries, herpes zoster, renal colic, and acute pancreatitis. ESPB was administered at the vertebral level of region of most pain, unilaterally or bilaterally for complete dermatomal block. It was injected as a single or continuous block - in the seated, lateral, or prone position. All of the studies demonstrate a significant reduction in pain. Furthermore, it has been reported to improve respiratory function, and it has not been associated with any complications following administration. Conclusion: This review shows initial data on the promising effect of ESPB in acute pain management in the ED. Current evidence shows its effectiveness and safety for the most common presenting cases of pain, such as rib and spine fracture, mechanical back pain, burn injuries, herpes zoster, renal colic, as well as acute pancreatitis. ESPB is flexible in administration and relatively easy to perform under ultrasound guidance.