Improved Concussion Discharge Instructions in a Pediatric Emergency Department

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Pediatric concussions are a common injury requiring emergency department visits.
• Effective discharge instructions are crucial for managing pediatric concussions and ensuring proper recovery.
• Current standard discharge instructions may not fully equip caregivers with necessary knowledge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of the Acute Concussion Evaluation-Emergency Department Discharge Instructions (ACE-ED DI) on caregiver knowledge.
• To assess improvements in understanding concussion management, return-to-school, return-to-sports, and follow-up care.
• To compare the effectiveness of ACE-ED DI combined with standard instructions versus standard instructions alone.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental study was conducted in a pediatric emergency department.
• Caregivers of children (5-18 years) with concussions were surveyed before and after receiving different discharge instructions.
• Two phases were implemented: standard discharge instructions (SDIs) followed by SDIs plus ACE-ED DI, with a 16-item survey to measure understanding.

Main Results:

• Caregivers receiving ACE-ED DI reported a 24% increase in the helpfulness of materials (p < 0.001).
• Perceived understanding of concussion management and return-to-activity guidelines increased by 25% and 23% respectively (p < 0.001).
• There was a 17% increase in the likelihood of follow-up with a primary care provider (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• The ACE-ED DI is a more effective tool than standard discharge instructions for enhancing caregiver knowledge of pediatric concussion.
• Implementing ACE-ED DI in emergency departments can improve concussion injury management and adherence to follow-up care.
• Enhanced discharge instructions are vital for optimizing recovery and reducing potential complications from pediatric concussions.