CJEM
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Intra-abdominal injury occurs in less than 15% of pediatric trauma activations but can be life-threatening. Computed tomography (CT) imaging is commonly ordered in pediatric trauma, even when intra-abdominal injury risk is low. We aimed to reduce abdominal/pelvic CT rates in children at very low risk for intra-abdominal injury requiring trauma activation at our pediatric trauma centre. ⋯ This quality improvement initiative reduced abdominal/pelvic CT rates in pediatric trauma patients at low risk for intra-abdominal injury without any missed cases of significant injury. Leveraging standardized decision tools to reduce unnecessary CT imaging can be successfully accomplished without compromising care.
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This study's objective was to examine emergency department (ED) workers' perspectives during the Canadian COVID-19 first wave. ⋯ ED workers believe they have a responsibility to provide care through a pandemic. Trust in leadership is supported by managers who are present and responsive, transparent in their communication, and involve ED staff in the development and practice of policies and procedures. Such practices will help protect from burnout and ensure the workforce's long-term sustainability.
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Due to the COVID pandemic, restrictions were put in place mandating that all residency interviews be transitioned to a virtual format. Canadian CCFP(EM) programs were among the first to embark on this universal virtual interview process for resident selection. Although there have been several recent publications suggesting best practice guidelines for virtual interviews in trainee selection, pragmatic experiences and opinions from Program Directors (PDs) are lacking. This study aimed to elicit the experiences and perspectives of CCFP(EM) PDs after being amongst the first to conduct universal virtual interviews in Canada. ⋯ Once restrictions are lifted, cost-saving advantages must be weighed against suggested disadvantages such as showcasing program strengths and assessing interpersonal skills in choosing between traditional and virtual formats. Should virtual interviews become a routine part of resident selection, the advice suggested in this study may be considered to help optimize a successful virtual interview process.