A systematic review of interventions for reducing and reporting adverse events in emergency departments: Multidisciplinary approaches and technological innovations

Abstract

Background

Adverse events in hospital emergency departments remain significant health problems that pose a serious threat to the patients with resultant detrimental outcomes. However, effective strategies for their reduction and reporting remain understudied.

Aim

This review aims to evaluate interventions for reducing and reporting adverse events in emergency settings.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search across six major scientific databases, including PubMed and Cochrane, for papers published between 2001 and 2024 to capture a broad range of interventions. A PRISMA protocol for systematic review methodology was applied. Included were studies evaluating interventions aimed at reducing adverse events and improving the reporting processes in emergency departments. According to predefined guidelines, data extraction and quality assessment for randomised controlled trials and non-randomized experimental research were completed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Analysis was done on 12 papers that met the criteria for inclusion.

Findings

Key interventions included multidisciplinary staff training, the implementation of electronic health record systems with decision-support tools, and standardised triage protocols, all of which demonstrated a reduction in adverse events. Standardised triage protocols and simulation scenarios were effective in reducing adverse events. Meanwhile, electronic health record systems with decision support tools, machine learning integration, and electronic medication alerts significantly improved reporting practices.

Conclusion

The review highlights the importance of multifaceted strategies, particularly those integrating technology and collaborative approaches, to improve safety culture in emergency departments. Future research should focus on long-term evaluations of these interventions in diverse healthcare settings, with a particular emphasis on resource-limited environments and the scalability of technological solutions.

Study registration details

The protocol is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews with registration number ‘CRD42024532902’.