Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 3, 2025

A Saline/Bipolar Radiofrequency Energy Device As an Adjunct for Hemostasis in Solid Organ Injury/Trauma
04:20

A Saline/Bipolar Radiofrequency Energy Device As an Adjunct for Hemostasis in Solid Organ Injury/Trauma

Published on: July 28, 2020

5.3K

Reducing Phlebotomy, Length of Stay, Cost: Development of a Blunt Abdominal Trauma Pathway in a Level I, Pediatric

Jean Marie A Rinnan, Jacob Latreille1, Autumn D Nanassy2

  • 1Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA.

Pediatric Emergency Care
|July 29, 2022
PubMed

Insights

A new laboratory testing pathway for pediatric blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) significantly reduced unnecessary tests, emergency department (ED) stays, and costs without compromising patient care or safety.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Trauma Care
  • Clinical Pathway Development
  • Diagnostic Laboratory Testing

Background:

  • Blunt abdominal trauma (BAT) is a significant cause of pediatric morbidity.
  • Current laboratory testing protocols for pediatric BAT are not standardized and can be costly.
  • There is a need for evidence-based pathways to optimize diagnostic testing in pediatric BAT.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate a novel laboratory testing pathway for pediatric blunt abdominal trauma.
  • To determine if the pathway could safely reduce laboratory test orders, emergency department (ED) length of stay, and associated costs.
  • To assess the impact of the pathway on patient outcomes, including missed injuries and readmissions.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 329 pediatric BAT patients (Level I, II, III trauma) from 2015-2018.
  • Patients were analyzed in pre- and post-implementation groups of the proposed laboratory testing pathway.
  • Univariate analyses were used to compare outcomes between the two groups.

Main Results:

  • Significant reductions in orders for complete blood counts, coagulation studies, urinalysis, comprehensive metabolic panels, amylase, and lipase levels were observed post-pathway implementation (P < 0.05).
  • Patients managed with the pathway had shorter average ED lengths of stay and lower testing costs (P < 0.05).
  • No increase in 30-day ED return visits, missed injuries, or readmissions was detected.

Conclusions:

  • The implemented laboratory testing pathway for pediatric BAT effectively reduced laboratory utilization, ED length of stay, and costs.
  • The pathway demonstrated a safe and cost-effective approach to managing pediatric blunt abdominal trauma without compromising the quality of care.
  • This study supports the adoption of standardized laboratory testing pathways in pediatric trauma centers.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Maintenance of a Lateral Fluid Percussion Injury Device05:16

Maintenance of a Lateral Fluid Percussion Injury Device

Published on: April 21, 2023

1.0K
Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function06:47

Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function

Published on: November 8, 2024

1.0K

Related Concept Videos

Flail Chest-II01:26

Flail Chest-II

Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
228
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
523
Flail Chest-I01:24

Flail Chest-I

Overview of Flail Chest
Flail chest is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the fracture of three or more adjacent ribs in multiple places. It is most commonly caused by direct impacts and trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or injuries from a steering wheel impact. It can also occur due to falls in elderly individuals with osteoporosis, or assaults involving sharp objects.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of flail chest is complex, involving fractures of...
268
Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care01:20

Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) requires a collaborative healthcare approach to restore renal function and prevent complications. Essential management strategies involve monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance, adjusting medications, initiating dialysis when necessary, and providing nutritional support.Fluid and Electrolyte ManagementFluid Monitoring: Regularly monitoring body weight, central venous pressure, and urine output helps detect fluid imbalances early. Patient intake and output are...
44
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management01:29

Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management

Diagnosing and managing appendicitis requires a structured and comprehensive approach that spans from initial assessment to postoperative care. Here is an overview of the process:
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
135