Effectiveness of the Traumatic Brain Injury Whole Blood Test on Improving Assessment and Triage for Patients With GCS 13-15 Presenting to Emergency Departments

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to identify factors that affect the use of the i-STAT Alinity whole blood test for traumatic brain injury (TBI) in emergency departments, focusing on patients with a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) of 13-15. The study evaluates how well this test helps decide if a head CT scan is needed, assesses its impact on emergency department length of stay, and predicts return visits for the same injury. It also explores organizational, physician, and patient views on using the test and develops tailored plans to improve its implementation. The study involves assessing approximately 140 patients with suspected mild TBI across multiple sites. The i-STAT Alinity TBI test measures brain injury biomarkers from whole blood within 24 hours after injury. Researchers will observe current emergency department practices, including use of CT scans, and pilot an implementation plan designed to reduce unnecessary CT scans in patients with negative i-STAT results. The study gathers data from healthcare providers, patients, and community advisory boards to understand challenges and acceptance of the test. Participants will be evaluated during their emergency department visit, including tests like the i-STAT Alinity TBI test, Glasgow Coma Score assessment, and concussion-related questionnaires. Researchers will track rates of CT scans completed within 5 hours, emergency department length of stay, and patient return visits within two weeks. Surveys and implementation tools will be used at enrollment and study conclusion to measure adoption and feasibility. The total study duration spans from enrollment through a 39-month observation period for implementation outcomes.

Emergency Department Implementation of the i-STAT Alinity Traumatic Brain Injury Whole Blood Test