BACKGROUND: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo, yet it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in emergency departments (EDs). Despite evidence-based guidelines recommending bedside diagnostic maneuvers (Dix-Hallpike and supine roll test) and canalith repositioning maneuvers (CRMs), these are infrequently utilized, leading to unnecessary imaging, prolonged symptoms, and increased healthcare utilization.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to implement an educational strategy to improve the diagnosis and treatment of BPPV in the ED by increasing adherence to guideline-based practices.
METHODS: We conducted a multicenter interrupted time series study from August 2020 to September 2023. The intervention, developed using the CAN-Implement framework, included online training, quick-reference tools, and a mobile app. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person training was canceled. The primary clinical outcome was the proportion of patients receiving the appropriate CRM based on positional test results. Implementation outcomes included fidelity, appropriateness, adoption, penetration, and system impact, reported using the Standards for Reporting Implementation Studies (StaRI) guidelines.
RESULTS: We included 1682 patients (1252 pre-intervention, 430 post-intervention). There was no significant change in the primary outcome (appropriate CRM use, OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.76-1.40). However, selective CT use improved (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.09-1.49), supine roll testing increased from 14.2% to 23.5%, and neurology consults decreased from 7.1% to 4.0%. Documentation of diagnostic test descriptors improved, while neurological exam documentation declined.
CONCLUSION: The intervention did not significantly increase appropriate CRM use but led to improvements in selective imaging, neurology consultation, and horizontal canal testing. Provision of educational tools alone was insufficient to overcome identified environmental barriers. To effectively improve BPPV management in the ED, future efforts should combine hands-on training with system-level supports and workflow integration.