Things We Do for No Reason : Lumbar Punctures in Low-Risk Febrile Infants with Bronchiolitis

Justin Berk1, Eric Biondi2, Pranita D Tamma2

  • 1Warren Alpert School of Medicine at Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island.

Insights

The "Things We Do for No Reason" series examines common hospital practices that may offer little patient value. These reviews aim to spark research and discussions on potentially unnecessary medical interventions.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Practice Analysis
  • Health Services Research

Background:

  • The Choosing Wisely campaign identifies low-value medical practices.
  • The "Things We Do for No Reason" (TWDFNR) series critically evaluates common hospital procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review prevalent hospital care practices that may lack significant patient benefit.
  • To stimulate dialogue and research regarding potentially unnecessary medical interventions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and expert consensus on common medical practices.
  • Analysis of clinical utility and patient value.

Main Results:

  • Identified several common hospital practices with questionable value.
  • Highlighted areas for potential reduction in low-value care.

Conclusions:

  • Encourages critical evaluation of routine medical practices.
  • Promotes shared decision-making between clinicians and patients regarding care.
  • Aims to reduce unnecessary medical interventions and improve healthcare value.