Charting errors in a teaching hospital.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess charting errors by junior trainees in the emergency department at the beginning of the academic year and to evaluate the effect of audits and reminders in reducing charting errors in July.

Methods: Medical records from June and July 2006 were reviewed to identify incomplete documentations (charting errors) in 5 areas. The audit was repeated in July 2007 after sample charts were displayed, and reminders were sent.

Physicians' perceptions of background noise in a pediatric emergency department.

Objective: The objectives of this study were to measure noise levels in a tertiary care pediatric emergency department (ED) and to identify attending staff physicians' and first-year residents' perceptions of background noise levels and its impact on communication and teaching.

Methods: A mixed methodology was used in this study. A sound level meter measuring 30 to 140 dB was placed in the ED for a week.