Characterization of Acidosis in Trauma Patient.

Background: Recent data suggest that acidosis alone is not a good predictor of mortality in trauma patients. Little data are currently available regarding factors associated with survival in trauma patients presenting with acidosis.

Aims: The aims were to characterize the outcomes of trauma patients presenting with acidosis and to identify modifiable risk factors associated with mortality in these patients.

Root Cause Analysis of ICU Adverse Events in the Veterans Health Administration.

Background: ICUs' provision of complex care for critically ill patients results in an environment with a high potential for adverse events. A study was conducted to characterize adverse events in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) ICUs that underwent root cause analysis (RCA) and to identify the root causes and their recommended actions.

Methods: This retrospective observational study of RCA reports concerned events that occurred in VHA ICUs or as a result of ICU processes from January 1, 2013, through December 31, 2014.

Site of Treatment for Non-Urgent Conditions by Medicare Beneficiaries: Is There a Role for Urgent Care Centers?

Background: There is limited information on where and how often Medicare beneficiaries seek care for non-urgent conditions when a physician office visit is not available. Emergency departments are often an alternative site of care, and urgent care centers have now also emerged to fill this need. The purpose of the study was to characterize the site of care for Medicare beneficiaries with non-urgent conditions; the relationship between physician office, urgent care center, and emergency department utilization; and specifically the role of urgent care centers.

Effectiveness of rapid response teams on rates of in-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest and mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: In 2004, the Institute for Healthcare Improvement's 100,000 Lives Campaign recommended that hospitals implement rapid response teams (RRTs) charged with identifying non-intensive care unit (ICU) patients at risk for rapid deterioration. Although RRTs are now in widespread use, there have been conflicting results regarding the impact of RRTs on hospital mortality and cardiopulmonary arrest.

Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of RRTs on reducing hospital mortality and non-ICU cardiopulmonary arrest rates.