title: Temporary observation in emergency medicine.
abstract: Modern emergency medicine requires the use of temporary observation (TO) to direct diagnostic and therapeutic decisions. The position of TO in the hospital structure has been well defined in the legal sense, inasmuch as it provides the preparatory stage for the final specialized medical treatment the patient will receive after admission. TO has become indispensable in emergency medicine to provide prompt treatment of critically ill patients and to clarify as rapidly as possible uncertain cases to avoid unnecessary admissions and transfers. To operate effectively, the service of TO must be provided well-trained staff, suitable physical facilities and support services, and access to rapid specialty consultations within the emergency room environment.
authors.affiliation: Autonomous First Aid, Reception and Temporary Observation Service of the Azienda per i Servizi Sanitari n.1 Triestina, Italy.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Reina
mesh_terms: D000208:Acute Disease / Q000628:therapy*; D003933:Diagnosis; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000379:methods; D004635:Emergency Medicine / Q000379:methods*; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy; D008511:Medicine; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D013038:Specialization