Dislocated shoulders are a common problem faced by emergency physicians. For patients they are often extremely painful injuries that they consequently require prompt attention if they are to be managed well. The vast majority >95%) of dislocations are anterior dislocations.
Are shoulder dislocations managed appropriately according to best practice guidelines?
Retrospective audit
Sample: 30-50 Emergency Department patient records
Criteria
Inclusions: All shoulder dislocations in patients aged 16 or over
Exclusions: Dislocations associated with greater tuberosity fractures, humeral and/or clavicular fractures, and children
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1st December 2011
Date | Patients | Measured | Results | Standard | Regional avg. |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
01st December 2011 | Patients attending the ED with a shoulder dislocation | Management of patient according to criteria | X ray taken within 60 mins of arrival | 100 % | 82 % |
X-ray post reduction | 100 % | 97 % | |||
Two medical staff involved, one for reduction , one for sedation | 100 % | 48 % | |||
Pain relief within 20 mins of arrival | 100 % | 18 % | |||
Neurovascular examination (including axillary nerve) documented | 100 % | 82 % |
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