Pulmonary embolism response teams (PERTs) activated at night or on weekends were less likely to involve other specialists, according to research presented at the American Thoracic Society 2025 International Conference. However, time of activation did not impact rapid response times. The study sought to investigate whether temporal factors, such as time of day, correlate with the activation and response of PERTs.
“Pulmonary embolism is a complex medical condition that has significant morbidity and mortality. Because of this, there are large variations in treatment modalities, and the need for rapid action has spurred the implementation of PERTs throughout the country,” wrote the authors, led by Jonah Vernejoul of theNew York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York City. However, little is known about use patterns with such teams.
The researchers retrospectively analyzed data on 644 patients who had venous thromboembolism necessitating PERT activation from February 2020 to December 2023. Most PERT activations originated from the emergency department (n=370, 52%), followed by the medicine service (n=228, 32%) and surgical service (n=46, 6.5%). Most PERT activations occurred during the daytime (7am to 7pm, 62%) and during the week (78%).
When PERT activation occurred during the day, the team was more likely to activate the medical intensive care unit, interventional radiology, and cardiothoracic surgery (43% of daytime activations versus 32% nighttime activations). PERTs activated over the weekend were significantly less likely to activate those three services (30% of weekend activations versus 42% weekday activations). “This may be attributed to the availability of services or to differences in physician decision-making during ‘normal business hours,’” the authors suggested.
The study found no variations by season or type of provider (physician versus advanced practice provider). PERT response times were similar among variables. The researchers recommend further research to explore whether PERT temporal factors affect outcomes.
Reference Vernejoul J, Slagle D, Gaaserud R, et al. Should your PE happen during business hours: pert usage and temporal variations. Abstract #A1421. Presented at the American Thoracic Society International Conference; May 18-21, 2025; San Francisco, California.
