A Statewide EMS Viral Syndrome Pandemic Triage Protocol: 24 Hour Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
• Pandemic Preparedness
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges to EMS systems.
• Maryland's EMS implemented a Viral Syndrome Pandemic Triage Protocol with a decision tool.
• The protocol aimed to identify patients suitable for home self-care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of the Maryland Viral Syndrome Pandemic Triage Protocol.
• To evaluate the safety of referring patients for home self-care.
• To analyze patient outcomes following EMS encounters during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective statewide analysis of EMS patients (March-September 2020).
• Compared patients triaged with the protocol's decision tool versus those without.
• Used logistic regression to analyze ED presentation and hospitalization within 24 hours.

Main Results:

• 95% of patients triaged home using the protocol did not require hospitalization.
• Patients with documented protocol use showed a trend towards better outcomes.
• 14.5% of protocol-triaged patients presented to the ED within 24 hours, with 5% hospitalized.

Conclusions:

• Triage to self-care at home using the documented decision support tool appears safe for most patients.
• The protocol demonstrated potential benefits in managing patients during the pandemic.
• Integration of such tools into pandemic preparedness strategies is recommended, with follow-up mechanisms.