Cumulative traumatic life events and increased risk for emergency department and inpatient utilization after physical injury hospitalization.
InjuryJul 2, 2026 (epub)
Mary Huynh, Stephen O'Connor, Megan McManamen et al.
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In 30 seconds
This study analyzed the relationship between cumulative traumatic life events and emergency department (ED) and inpatient utilization among 445 physically injured trauma survivors aged 18 and older. The randomized controlled trial found that 62% of patients had one or more ED/inpatient visits within 12-36 months post-injury. Notably, having ≥ 7 prior traumas was associated with a 35% increased odds of ED/inpatient visits.
Key findings
- 62% of patients had one or more ED/inpatient visits in the 12-36 months post-injury.
- Patients with ≥ 7 prior traumas had an odds ratio of 1.35 for increased ED/inpatient visits.
- Pre-injury ED visits were associated with an odds ratio of 2.42 for increased utilization.
- Traumatic life events in the year following injury had an odds ratio of 2.53 for increased ED/inpatient visits.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of cumulative traumatic life events on healthcare utilization can help clinicians identify at-risk patients and tailor interventions to reduce future emergency and inpatient care needs.