Derivation of a typology for the classification of risks in emergency medicine.
OBJECTIVE
To develop a graded classification system for risks in emergency medicine. To test the inter-user reliability of this classification system.


METHODS
Prospective collection of data involving emergency department (ED) critical incidents. Derivation of classification system using the collected critical incidents. Comparison of results of classification of a sample of the critical incidents between different users of the system.


METHODS
EDs in two teaching hospitals and two district general hospitals (DGHs) in the north west of England.


METHODS
Observational study.


RESULTS
Classification system itself. Results of classification of same critical incidents by different users.


RESULTS
816 critical incidents were identified and used to derive a typology. This typology was found to have inter-user reliability score of 86% (95% confidence intervals 76.4% to 95.6%).


CONCLUSIONS
The typology that has been derived is a reliable tool for the classification of risks in emergency medicine.
Thomas
M
M
Emergency Department, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.
Mackway-Jones
K
K
Boreham
N
N
D003951:Diagnostic Errors / Q000145:classification; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000592:standards*; D004739:England; D004868:Equipment Failure; D006801:Humans; D019300:Medical Errors / Q000145:classification*; D008499:Medical Records / Q000592:standards; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012308:Risk Management / Q000379:methods*