C.01: Intrathecal morphine following lumbar fusion: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Abstract

LE JOURNAL CANADIEN DES SCIENCES NEUROLOGIQUESSuppl. 2 -S11 variables on diagnosis of epilepsy. Diagnostic concordance between SSC nurses and epileptologists was also assessed. Results: Predominant referral sources were emergency department physicians and general practitioners. Mean wait-time for fi rst assessment was significantly reduced by 70.5% employing the SSC model versus historical usual care. A diagnosis was established at fi rst-contact in 80.5% of cases while 16.0% of patients required a second visit. Eighty-two patients (41.0%) were diagnosed with epilepsy. The most common non-seizure diagnosis was syncope (24.0%). An abnormal EEG was found in 93.9% of patients diagnosed with epilepsy. Sixty-three patients were started on anti-epileptic drugs. In 18% of cases driving restrictions were initiated by the SSC. There was moderate correlation between SSC nurses and physicians (kappa=0.54; p<0.001) diagnoses. Conclusions: The SSC model reduces wait-times, streamlines assessments, and impacts clinical care decisions.