H1N1 2009 influenza (human swine influenza): A descriptive study of the response of an influenza assessment clinic collaborating with an emergency department in Australia

摘要

Background: In June 2009, the World Health Organisation elevated their pandemic index indicating that the spread H1N1 2009 influenza was global. Many emergency departments (EDs) implemented strategies to divert patients with influenza-like symptoms, such as having separate triage and treatment areas. The establishment of influenza assessment clinics (IAC), also known as fever clinics, was a common strategy to achieve this diversion and separation. Calvary Health Care ACT (Calvary Hospital) established an IAC, supported predominately by ED nursing staff, as a strategy to enhance the health response capacity to H1N1 2009 influenza. Aim: This study described the profile of patients presenting to the IAC and ED with influenza-like symptoms, and tested the relationships that influenced the collaboration between the IAC and ED.Method: This was a retrospective, descriptive study using the existing patient information system to collect data. The sample for this study included all patients that presented with influenza-like symptoms to the IAC or ED during the IAC operational period; 3 June 2009-3 July 2009.Results: 1106 patients presented with influenza-like symptoms during the study period, 967 (87.4%) presented during the operational times of the IAC (0900-1700). Patients who presented to the ED were younger than those who presented to the IAC (p = 0.001). A significantly higher proportion of patients presented in the morning period (0900-1300) in comparison to any other time (p < 0.0005). Proportionately, the ED admitted more patients to hospital than the IAC (p < 0.0005). However, there were a significantly higher proportion of discharges from the ED than expected (p< 0.0005).