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Structured classification for ED presenting complaints - from free text field-based approach to ICPC-2 ED application
Tomi Malmström1, Olli Huuskonen, Paulus Torkki
1Institute of Healthcare Engineering and Management, Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Aalto University, Otaniementie 17, 00076, Aalto, Finland. tomi.malmstrom@aalto.fi
Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine
|November 27, 2012
Summary
A new structured classification for emergency department (ED) presenting complaints was developed and implemented. This 89-complaint system, adapted from ICPC-2, is easy for ED staff to use.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Health Informatics
- Medical Classification Systems
Background:
- Emergency departments (EDs) lack a standardized method for recording and analyzing patient presenting complaints.
- Existing classification systems, like ICPC-2, are not optimally structured for ED environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a structured classification system for ED presenting complaints.
- To adapt and implement an existing classification for practical ED use.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 40,610 free-text ED admission complaints to identify 70 complaint groups.
- Comparison with International Classification of Primary Care, Version 2 (ICPC-2) data.
- Expert panel review and adaptation of ICPC-2 for ED application.
- Implementation of the new classification in an ED setting.
Main Results:
- A strong similarity was observed between free-text complaints and ICPC-2 categories.
- The standard ICPC-2 was found to be too broad for effective ED use.
- A refined classification comprising 89 presenting complaints was developed and found user-friendly by ED staff.
Conclusions:
- The International Classification of Primary Care, Version 2 (ICPC-2) can be effectively adapted for emergency department use.
- A proposed list of 89 presenting complaints offers a practical and standardized approach for adult EDs.
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