A survey of information given to head-injured patients on direct discharge from emergency departments in Scotland. Issue 5 (23rd April 2007)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kerr, Jacques; Swann, Ian J; Pentland, Brian
• Is Part Of: Emergency medicine journal. Volume 24:Issue 5(2007)
• Page Start: 330
• Page End: 332
• Publication Date: 2007-04-23
• Subjects: ED, emergency department -- MHI, mild head injury -- PCS, postconcussion syndrome; Emergency medicine -- Periodicals; 616.02505
• DOI: 10.1136/emj.2006.044230
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1472-0205

Abstract

Abstract : Aim: To survey the information provided to head-injured patients on discharge from emergency departments (EDs) in Scotland. Methods: EDs throughout Scotland were asked to supply a copy of their head injury advice pamphlet for analysis. Each pamphlet was assessed against a template and an Excel spreadsheet was created. Results: All 30 (100%) Scottish EDs responded. The frequency with which specific features appeared varied widely, with most pamphlets concentrating on emergency features, with less emphasis on postconcussion symptoms. Conclusions: Head injury discharge advice should be standardised throughout EDs, with more emphasis given to postconcussion features.