Effect of an education programme on the utilization of a medical emergency team in a teaching hospital

Abstract

There was a progressive increase in the utilization of the MET service in the 3.5 years after implementation, with the rate of uptake 4.9 times greater for surgical than for medical patients. Sustained uptake of the MET system is possible, but increased utilization may take several years to develop. Short-term studies testing the efficacy of the MET system are likely to significantly underestimate its effect on reducing adverse events. Intensive care unit resource adjustments will become necessary to meet increased demand.