Management of children with possible appendicitis: A survey of emergency physicians in Australia and New Zealand

Abstract

Objectives: To describe current practice in managing children with possible acute appendicitis in EDs in Australia and New Zealand as the basis for a clinical practice guideline (CPG). Methods: An anonymous survey was distributed to consultant emergency physicians working at PREDICT (Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative) sites in Australia and New Zealand in April 2013. A second, site-based survey was distributed to the PREDICT representatives at each of the 13 sites. Results: The response rate was 100% (13/13) for the site-based survey and 82% (145/176) for the physician survey. Most respondents agreed that right lower quadrant (RLQ) tenderness (94%), ano..