Authors: Small, F.¹; Alderdice, F.; McCusker, C.²; Stevenson, M.³; Stewart, M.¹

Source: Child: Care, Health and Development, Volume 31, Number 5, September 2005 , pp. 555-562(8)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Abstract:

Objectives

To compare physical and psychological outcomes in children presenting at Accident and Emergency Departments (A&E), diagnosed with gastro-enteritis and admitted to hospital with those of a similar age, sex and severity of illness discharged home. The physical and psychological well-being of children in these two groups, in the month after the episode, were compared as was further use of health care services. Design

A prospective cohort study. Methods

A comparison of 116 children aged 1–6 years with gastro-enteritis, presenting at A&E over a 6 months period. Admitted children were compared with children discharged, of a similar age, sex and illness severity (triage score) with follow-up at 1 week and 1 month. Clinical history, psychosocial factors, investigations and outcomes were recorded at presentation and physical, psychological and family outcomes at 1 week and 1 month. Results

Of 116 children, 112 (97%) completed the study (56 in each group). No differences were detected in psychosocial factors, socio-economic status, family factors, time of arrival at A&E or waiting times. Parental perception of illness was greater in the admitted group (P < 0.005), but was recorded after the decision on admission was made. At 1 week follow-up admitted children had increased separation anxiety compared with children who were discharged (P < 0.05), but this difference disappeared at 1 month. Clinical outcomes were the same for both groups, although admitted children had more investigations (91% vs. 39%). Parents were equally satisfied with their child's treatment, but one-third of children in both groups sought further consultation with a health professional in the following week. Conclusions

There is no statistically significant difference in socio-demographic data, time of arrival at A&E, waiting times, clinical and psychosocial outcomes in children with acute gastro-enteritis admitted to hospital compared with a group of children of similar age, gender and severity of illness managed at home. However, parents seek reassurance and follow-up of acutely ill children, even if the child is admitted to hospital, which has service and resource implications.

Keywords: gastro-enteritis; management; parental perception; psychological profile

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2214.2005.00550.x

Affiliations: 1: Department of Child Health, The Queen's University of Belfast 2: Department of Clinical Psychology, The Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, and 3: Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, The Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, UK

Publication date: 2005-09-01

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• In this Subject: Pediatrics ,  Families & Communities ,  Social & Public Welfare
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