Are general practitioners really prepared? An audit of emergency equipment in general practice

Abstract

Aim: To determine what medical equipment is available in general practice surgeries in the greater Wellington region and the guidelines available for providing this equipment.

Method: A 23 item questionnaire was completed by general practices in the greater Wellington region between March and June 1993.

Results: Sixty-three percent of the study practices did not have all the required items the authors considered essential.

Conclusion: There is a clear need for guidelines on required emergency equipment for those working in or wishing to set up in general practice.