Care of Respiratory Conditions in an Observation Unit

Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2017 Aug;35(3):625-645. doi: 10.1016/j.emc.2017.03.008.

Abstract

In adults, respiratory disorders are the second most frequent diagnoses treated in emergency department observation units (EDOUs) and account for the most frequent indication for placement of pediatric patients into an EDOU. With appropriate patient selection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations, and community-acquired pneumonia can be managed in the EDOU. EDOU management results in equivalent or better outcomes than inpatient care with decreased length of stay, increased patient satisfaction, lower cost and in some studies decreased mortality. Evidence-based protocols are important to ensure appropriate patients are placed in the EDOU, standardize best practice interventions, and guide disposition decisions.

Keywords: Asthma; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Community-acquired pneumonia; Emergency department; Emergency department observation unit; Observation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Asthma / therapy*
  • Community-Acquired Infections / diagnosis
  • Community-Acquired Infections / therapy
  • Emergency Service, Hospital* / organization & administration
  • Hospital Units*
  • Humans
  • Observation*
  • Pneumonia / diagnosis
  • Pneumonia / therapy*
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / therapy*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents