Improving the Adoption of Transitions in Care Technology Between Emergency Medical Services and Emergency Departments: A Scoping Review
Date
2024-01-08
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Abstract
Abstract Background: Miscommunication during emergency care transitions between emergency medical services and emergency department personnel can lead to serious medical errors and adverse patient events. Although mobile technology has the potential to help, its global adoption within health systems remains limited. Objectives: This thesis sought to create an easily accessible repository of mobile software application features, motivations for use, and barriers that hinder the adoption of this technology. The primary goal was to support research, design, and development and improve the adoption of this critical technology. Design: The scoping review methodology was employed to explore the literature broadly. Searches were conducted in eight academic databases, including Academic Search Complete, APA PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus, the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science. Additionally, eight preprint databases were searched, along with Google Play Apps, Appleās App Store, and Google, to identify available documents published between 2012-2023. This strategy provided access to the most current information on emerging technology, especially those adapted for pandemic management. Author, reference, and app searches were conducted to trace the evolution and development of products. Results: The document identification process was outlined using an adapted PRISMA flow chart, resulting in the inclusion of 38 academic and non-academic documents. The review revealed twelve distinct transitions in care software applications, primarily from the U.S. (61.8%), Australia (11.8%), Japan (11.8%), Brazil (8.8%), China (2.9%), and Saudi Arabia (2.9%). Pulsara, e-Bridge, Twiage, Join, and CrashHelp were the most prominently investigated applications. The review also highlighted diverse research approaches, stakeholders' perspectives, and insights into design features, motivations, and adoption barriers. Conclusions: This research introduces a novel approach to promoting transition in care software application adoption. It has resulted in an adoption model and a comprehensive strategy encompassing various key aspects. A common theme is the need to establish a robust support system involving stakeholders, along with flexible, region-specific solutions. Collaboration between emergency practitioners is consistently emphasized, underscoring the importance of holistic tools and strategies for success. This work underscores the potential of technology and human collaboration to save lives.
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Keywords
emergency medical, ambulance, technology adoption, scoping review, software application
Citation
Sterzer, F. R. (2024). Improving the adoption of transitions in care technology between emergency medical services and emergency departments: a scoping review (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.