Overuse of plain abdominal radiography in emergency departments: a retrospective cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Plain abdominal radiography (PAR) is routinely performed in emergency departments (EDs). This study aimed to (1) identify the indications for PAR in EDs and compare them against international guidelines, (2) uncover predictors of non-compliance with guidelines, and (3) describe the use of additional radiological examinations in EDs.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study in the EDs of two hospitals in Geneva, Switzerland, including all adult patients who underwent PAR in the EDs. Indications were considered "appropriate" if complying with guidelines. Predictors of non-compliance were identified by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Over 1 year, PAR was performed in 1997 patients (2.2% of all admissions). Their mean age was 59.7 years, with 53.1% of f

SUBMITTER: Bertin CL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6332516 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature