Accident and emergency department: the effect of the introducing a ESP physiotherapy practitioner.

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Jibuike OO et al (2003) assessed the effect of the introduction of a physiotherapist with an extended scope of practice in the management of acute soft tissue knee injuries in an accident and emergency (A&E) department.
An experienced physiotherapist was appointed to run the Acute Knee Screening Service after additional training. Local guidelines and protocols were developed in conjunction with trauma knee surgeons, radiologists, physiotherapists, and A&E doctors.
The initial diagnosis of patients with acute knee injuries referred to the service showed meniscal injuries (38%), cruciate ligament injuries (18%), fractures (2%), patellofemoral joint injuries (10%), and others (32%).
95% of patients referred to Acute Knee Screening Service were seen within one week. Medical time was saved in both A&E and trauma clinic. 59% of patients were treated and discharged from the service without further medical review. 39% were referred to trauma clinic and of these 44% had MRI scans performed as requested by the physiotherapist. 88% of these scans showed significant abnormality: (nine, anterior cruciate ligament tears, one, posterior cruciate ligament tears, and nine meniscal tears).
They concluded a physiotherapy practitioner working with an extended role is a valuable addition to an A&E department. The AKSS improves the quality of care of acute knee injuries, saves medical time, and fosters cooperation across services within the NHS.
Ask the researcher at:
ojibuike@hotmail.com

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