Use of Thromboelastography (TEG) in the Emergency Department Topic Brief-Use of Thromboelastography (TEG) in the Emergency Department Topic Brief

Pdf Summary

Thromboelastography (TEG) is a point-of-care laboratory test that analyzes the clotting process and provides information on platelet function, viscosity, and elasticity. It is used to assess coagulopathy and guide transfusion therapies, particularly in emergency department (ED) patients with traumatic injury or other conditions that can cause coagulation disorders. TEG has proven effective in managing patients receiving anticoagulants, guiding hemostatic therapy and transfusion guidance, and assisting in trauma resuscitation.<br /><br />TEG provides essential and specific information on clotting function faster than conventional coagulation tests, allowing for rapid decision-making. It measures several parameters, including fibrin-platelet bond strength, clot formation time, clot strength, and clot lysis. This information helps identify the cause of coagulopathy and guides treatment decisions, such as the use of blood products or specific medications.<br /><br />Implementing TEG in the ED requires collaboration with the interdisciplinary team and assessing its feasibility and potential use in trauma resuscitation. ED nurses need education and competency validation in TEG interpretation and equipment familiarity. Ongoing education and training are necessary to maintain proficiency with TEG.<br /><br />Future research should focus on improving TEG technologies and studying its efficacy in managing massive hemorrhage and correlating TEG measurements with specific disorders. Prospective studies are needed to confirm that TEG reduces the need for blood products in trauma-related massive hemorrhage. ED nurses can contribute to research and help formulate therapeutic goals and transfusion guidelines.<br /><br />The use of TEG has been associated with higher survival rates and reduced blood product use. However, there are challenges and practice implications for emergency nurses. Continued advancements in technology and evidence-based practice are needed to support and implement TEG into emergency care and improve patient outcomes.

Meta Tag

thromboelastography trauma

thromboelastography coagulation

thromboelastography transfusion

thromboelastography resuscitation

thromboelastography anti-coagulation

thromboelastography hemostasis

thromboelastography hemorrhage

Keywords

Thromboelastography

point-of-care

platelet function

coagulopathy

transfusion therapies

traumatic injury

hemostatic therapy

fibrin-platelet bond strength

clot formation time

blood products