Software change improves CSD flexibility

An update to the software used by the clinical support desk (CSD) in our EOCs now gives clinicians more flexibility to explore symptoms further to help their telephone triage.

Lowcode went live last week and allows clinicians to alter the algorithm questions easier to enable a more in depth triage.

For example, if you are triaging a patient who is short of breath, you may want to explore the respiratory symptoms before you ask whether they have chest pain. Previously you were unable to do this, as Psiam would automatically determine an ambulance response is needed.

With Lowcode, we now have the option to 'delay' this question until further into the triage, which will allow a clinician to ask more questions before an outcome is suggested. The clinician will, as before, make the ultimate decision.

The CSD is operated by around 20 clinicians per day across the Trust within our three emergency operation centres, triaging agreed codesets and clinically appropriate signposted G2 calls. They deal with 8,000 – 9,000 calls per month, with plans to recruit more nurses and paramedics in the future. This will help to increase our Hear and Treat numbers as part of a new CQUIN.

Published 20th October, 2016