g. Hydrocortisone, Aspirin, Maternity pack, or Pillows). The study used a specifically developed website for data collection. This enabled data to be presented to participants visually, overcoming some of the known limitations of using measures of central tendency

[7,18,21,22] when feeding back results to participants between rounds. The web-based platform also reduced the length of time required to conduct the study: analysis of each round’s findings occurred automatically at a time appointed by the researchers and participants were immediately able to commence a further round Inhibitors,research,lifescience,medical of data collection. As data was stored electronically, the likelihood of human inputting error was also low and preliminary data analysis occurred automatically. However use of a web-based platform did not increase rates of study participation. Given its advantages, the researchers are now exploring the potential use of the web-based platform in future Delphi studies. Consensus is reached in a Delphi study when a pre-agreed percentage of participants Inhibitors,research,lifescience,medical have rated items similarly. Ironically, there is little agreement within the Delphi study literature as to what constitutes a ‘correct’ percentage level of consensus. Previous Delphi studies show marked variation (between 50% – 100%) in consensus levels [18,23].

A consensus Inhibitors,research,lifescience,medical level of 80% was selected in this study as it marked a clear majority opinion and has been used in previous emergency medicine research using the Delphi method [14]. However, in recognition that the 80% cut-off selected was a strict and somewhat

arbitrary definition of consensus, the items that gained at least Inhibitors,research,lifescience,medical 70% were highlighted in the study findings as items that were nearing the pre-set cut off. Ultimately the decision as to what is a sufficient degree of consensus is taken by those who use the study findings within their specific context, and not by the research Inhibitors,research,lifescience,medical team themselves. In mass casualty big bang scenarios emergency equipment is transported to the scene as quickly as possible. The logistics of achieving this are considerable and space and resources are limited. This study provides policy makers and planners with information to support them in making an informed decision about the type and quantity of equipment that is immediately required at the scene to supplement the equipment, consumables and drugs that will already be on the ambulance vehicles attending the incident. The study results will enough help to minimize wastage from unnecessary equipment ordering, and to increase efficiency in routine equipment audits. The study findings were presented, at a UK wide implementation meeting, to a stakeholder group that comprised senior ambulance service Selleck Caspase inhibitor clincians and managers, consultant emergency physicians, representatives from NHS England, NHS Wales and NHS Scotland, as well as English and Scottish Government policymakers and advisers. Structured discussions took place regarding the study findings.