Publication Date

Spring 3-11-2020

Project Category

Health Research

Faculty Mentor

Alan Taylor, MD

Document Type

Paper

Abstract

Intro: Undifferentiated dyspnea can be a complicated presentation muddled by patient comorbidities and similar symptomology shared among etiologies. Some studies have shown increased mortality and length of stay in the hospital when incorrectly initially diagnosed in the ED. US has been shown more effective at differentiating these causes and improves diagnostic accuracy. This study will implement US exam upon initial exam of patient and chart time to diagnosis/treatment, length of stay in ED, length of stay in hospital admissions versus discharge rates, and 30 day mortality. ADHF and COPD/asthma patient differentiation will be the focus.

Methods: Prospective cohort study of more than 18 years that present with the primary complaint of dyspnea with more than one complicating comorbid condition. Initial exam by physician will be accompanied by cardiothoracic US previously verified.

Results: Study powered by previous year average of time to diagnosis of institution. Patient characteristics, distribution by diagnostic category, and characteristics found on US in correlation with diagnosis will be included for multivariate analysis.

Conclusions: We expect to see a significant difference in our time to diagnosis/treatment and mortality rate.

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