emergency-decision-rules

name	emergency-decision-rules
description	Use when applying validated ED decision rules to reduce unnecessary imaging or testing. Includes Ottawa ankle/knee rules, Canadian C-Spine rule, and the PERC rule.

Emergency Decision Rules

Description

This skill provides structured guidance for common ED decision rules used to reduce unnecessary imaging or testing while maintaining safety. It supports accurate input collection, rule application, and risk interpretation.

Quick Reference

Tool	Use
Ottawa Ankle Rules	Decide ankle or foot radiographs after ankle injury
Ottawa Knee Rules	Decide knee radiographs after acute knee injury
Canadian C-Spine Rule	Decide cervical spine imaging in alert trauma patients
PERC Rule	Exclude PE in low-risk patients without D-dimer

Interactive Mode (Lightweight)

1. Confirm clinical context and intended rule.
2. Collect required inputs and findings.
3. Validate inclusion and exclusion criteria.
4. Apply rule and present result.
5. Provide safety caveats and next-step guidance.

Decision Rules

• Ottawa Ankle Rules
• Ottawa Knee Rules
• Canadian C-Spine Rule
• PERC Rule

Safety and Limitations

• Support tool only; not diagnostic or prescriptive.
• Use local policies and clinical judgment.
• Validate eligibility before applying each rule.

References

See: references/emergency-decision-rules-sources.md