A new era in acute neurological consultations

Angus-Leppan, H. and Leach, J. P. (2010) A new era in acute neurological consultations. European Journal of Neurology, 17(4), e26-e27. (doi: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2008.02904.x) (PMID:20050901)

Abstract

The work of neurologists is changing. Previously, a rare breed found largely in outpatient settings, we must now divide our time between outpatient sessions and acute work on the wards and in the emergency department (ED). Whilst outpatient work is visible, measured and controlled, inpatient work is difficult to quantify and less predictable. In a busy Irish hospital serving a population of 250 000 people, Ali et al. [1] studied the effects of a consultant-led inpatient service with intranet referrals. This referral system was developed to bring order to ward and ED consultations by providing a structure for the referring doctors, a feedback section and typed record of the consultation. More than 1000 referrals from doctors in the wards and the ED were seen over a 1-year period. The information gathered allowed analysis of the impact of the consultations on the diagnosis, admission and management of patients. The system remained responsive, with 77% of patients seen within 24 h. Almost half were seen in ED, and, of those, one-third were discharged. In 79% of patients seen, the consultation had a significant effect in facilitating diagnosis, treatment and properly targeting investigations.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Leach, Dr John Paul
• Authors: Angus-Leppan, H., and Leach, J. P.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
• Journal Name: European Journal of Neurology
• Publisher: Wiley
• ISSN: 1351-5101
• ISSN (Online): 1468-1331
• Published Online: 29 December 2009