Introduction
The implementation of a Mobile Pediatric Emergency Response Team (MPERT) during the H1N1 outbreak in Houston, Texas, offers valuable insights for practitioners seeking to improve their skills in emergency response. This innovative approach not only addressed the immediate needs of a community facing a potential pandemic but also provided a framework that can be adapted to various emergency situations. In this blog, we explore how the outcomes of this research can be applied to enhance pediatric emergency care, particularly in educational settings where TinyEYE provides online therapy services.
Understanding the MPERT Model
The MPERT model was developed in response to the surge in emergency department (ED) visits during the H1N1 outbreak. By utilizing an exterior mobile unit, the team was able to effectively triage, evaluate, and discharge low-acuity patients, thus alleviating the burden on the main ED. This approach not only reduced waiting times but also minimized the risk of virus transmission through strategic cohorting and social distancing measures.
Key Outcomes and Applications
The study conducted at Texas Children's Hospital demonstrated several key outcomes that can be leveraged to improve pediatric emergency response:
- Increased Surge Capacity: The MPERT model effectively increased the ED's capacity to handle a surge in patient volume, a critical factor in managing public health emergencies.
- Efficient Patient Flow: By rapidly identifying and treating low-acuity patients, the MPERT reduced the overall time spent in the department, allowing for more efficient use of resources.
- Enhanced Infection Control: The use of an open-air setting and strict cohorting protocols minimized the risk of nosocomial infections, a crucial consideration in pandemic scenarios.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, particularly those involved in school-based therapy services like TinyEYE, the MPERT model offers several lessons:
- Adaptability: The ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances is vital. Practitioners should be prepared to implement flexible strategies that can be tailored to the specific needs of their setting.
- Collaboration: Effective emergency response requires collaboration across multiple disciplines. Building strong partnerships with local healthcare providers can enhance the capacity to respond to crises.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data to inform decisions is essential. By monitoring patient volumes and outcomes, practitioners can refine their strategies to improve care delivery.
Encouraging Further Research
The success of the MPERT model underscores the importance of continued research in pediatric emergency response. Practitioners are encouraged to explore how similar models can be adapted to their own settings, particularly in the context of school-based therapy services. By leveraging data and evidence-based practices, we can enhance our ability to respond to future public health challenges.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Outside the Box and Into Thick Air: Implementation of an Exterior Mobile Pediatric Emergency Response Team for North American H1N1 (Swine) Influenza Virus in Houston, Texas.
