C Coulson1, R De. 1. Otolaryngology Specialist Registrar Rotation, West Midlands, UK. chriscoulson@doctors.org.uk
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To determine how nasal injuries are managed by accident and emergency (A&E) consultants and produce a management protocol if the survey indicated a need. METHOD: A postal survey of UK A&E consultants. RESULTS: The response rate was 59%. A great deal of variation was found between departments and clinicians regarding the training of junior A&E staff, the equipment available, the management strategies employed, and the reasons for referral to ENT or maxillofacial departments. CONCLUSIONS: This survey shows that many more nasal injuries could be managed within the A&E setting without referral to ENT or maxillofacial departments. A flow chart of the optimal management of nasal injuries in Accident and Emergency departments is presented.
OBJECTIVES: To determine how nasal injuries are managed by accident and emergency (A&E) consultants and produce a management protocol if the survey indicated a need. METHOD: A postal survey of UK A&E consultants. RESULTS: The response rate was 59%. A great deal of variation was found between departments and clinicians regarding the training of junior A&E staff, the equipment available, the management strategies employed, and the reasons for referral to ENT or maxillofacial departments. CONCLUSIONS: This survey shows that many more nasal injuries could be managed within the A&E setting without referral to ENT or maxillofacial departments. A flow chart of the optimal management of nasal injuries in Accident and Emergency departments is presented.