Publication:

Checklist approach to vertigo: audit of current practice in a tertiary referral center

Background Vertigo is a complex symptom which can be present in multiple conditions, some of which are life threatening. Diagnosing a patient with vertigo could sometimes be challenging and there is a need for a comprehensive, yet easily reproducible diagnostic model with emphasis on the red flag signs. A simple way to achieve this is a checklist. The aim of the study was to propose a diagnostic checklist for patients presenting with vertigo to an ENT clinic to aid diagnosis and prevent diagnostic errors.

Methods A diagnostic checklist was used in all patients who presented with the symptom of vertigo, necessary tests were conducted and referrals were done when required.

Results Out of eighty-five patients who presented with symptom of dizziness to ENT clinic, all patients received a definitive diagnosis treatment plan with the help of checklist.

Conclusions Checklist is an effective way to ensure elaborate assessment of the patient with emphasis on the red flag signs. It is a very important tool to arrive at diagnosis and formulate treatment plan.