Early transfer of cases from emergency(ER) to ICU (≤1 hour) - does it really make a big difference in outcome? an analysis

Methodology All cases transferred in a level 3 Care ICU from ER over a period of one year were included and TAT documented. Patients were divided into Control group (Group A with TAT≤1 hour) and other groups (Group B with TAT>1 hour≤3 hours, Group C with TAT >3 hours≤6 hours, Group D with TAT>6 hours). Outcome assessment was done using APACHE IV model on admission to ICU. Predicted Mortality Rate (PMR), Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR) was calculated and observed death in each group was documented. Comparison between Control group and other groups was done using unpaired Student t test and p value < 0.05 was considered significant to see whether there is significant difference in outcome based on mortality (SMR).