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Table 1 A section from the guidelines for acute admissions to the community hospital (HSS)

From: Acute admissions to a community hospital - health consequences: a randomized controlled trial in Hallingdal, Norway

Main rule

Patients in need of observation and treatment with frequent supervision by nurses and physicians, but who are not in need of the hospital's specific expertise and equipment

Samples and clarifications:

Observations

Light concussion (unconsciousness < 5 min., no focal neurological findings, GCS 14-15 and without special risk factors); this according to the Scandinavian guidelines where CT is not available

Fractures and injuries where it is appropriate to take X-rays on the HSS or where further admission to hospital has to be clarified

Intoxication (alcohol and tablets) after treatment at a municipal emergency unit. Deliberate self-harm should be admitted to RS

Observation of other causes where hospitalization is not necessary

Treatment and medical follow-up

Patients with infections who do not meet the SIRS criteria for sepsis. If so, the patient will be assessed for hospital admission in consultation with the specialist on call

COPD exacerbations where treatment has been clarified

Dehydrated patients who require intravenous fluid therapy

Hyperemesis

Nutritional deficiencies

Blood transfusions

Adjustment of ongoing medical treatment

Diabetes, with both tablet and insulin regulation. Patients with ketoacidosis, hyperglycaemia and with the risk of diabetic coma must be sent to RS

Heart failure

Palliative and terminal care

Especially concerning complex conditions and younger patients

Emergency deliveries

In cases where the general hospital cannot be reached