Abstract

Background: Seizures are frequent presentations in emergency departments (EDs) requiring comprehensive evaluation and management. Prolonged length of stay (LOS) for seizure patients can impact patient care and healthcare resource utilization. Understanding the factors influencing LOS in this population is crucial for optimizing ED operations. Objective: This retrospective study aimed to analyze the factors influencing the LOS of seizure patients presenting to the ED. Methods: The study was conducted at an academic tertiary care center with a busy ED serving a diverse patient population. A retrospective cross-sectional design was employed to analyze data from electronic medical records of seizure patients aged ≥18 years presenting to the ED between 1/1/2020 and 31/12/2022. Data were collected on patient demographics, clinical characteristics, including seizure type, medication adherence, comorbidities, and diagnostic interventions. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify significant associations between variables and LOS. Results: Of the 121 seizure patients included, factors significantly associated with prolonged LOS (>4 hours) included generalized tonic-clonic seizures, non-compliance to medication, breakthrough seizures, and diagnostic interventions such as CT head scans and neurology consultations. Conversely, known cases of seizure and absence of comorbidities were associated with shorter LOS (≤4 hours). Conclusion: Our study identifies several factors influencing the LOS for seizure patients in the ED, providing insights for optimizing patient care and resource allocation. Strategies aimed at addressing these factors may lead to improved efficiency and better outcomes for seizure patients in the ED.

Key words: Seizures, Emergency department, length of stay, patient outcomes, healthcare resource utilization.