Should systematic risk assessment and immediate intervention of the acutely ill patient replace the traditional management paradigm?

Abstract

The outcome of the traditional diagnostic history and physical depends entirely on the availability, ability and diligence of an individual doctor. An alternative is a team-based approach that performs the following tasks: a focused assessment, monitoring of the response to initial treatment, and then determining what further management is appropriate (calling for urgent help if it is required). This concept is based on risk prediction rather than diagnosis, and is captured by the mnemonic FAITH3 (Focused Assessment, Initial Treatment, hAssessing response, calling for Help and Handing over care).