Epidemiology and Clinical Characteristics of Emergency Department Patients with COVID-19 in a Rhode Island Healthcare System

Background Rhode Island (RI) has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to describe emergency department (ED) patients with COVID-19 within the largest healthcare system in RI. Methods A retrospective electronic medical record review of 1,209 adult patients evaluated and diagnosed with COVID-19 in 4 EDs during the first peak (March 15, 2020 to May 16, 2020) was conducted. Sociodemographic, clinical, management, and ED disposition information were summarized. RESULTS: Median age of patients was 55 years (IQR 40-69), 55.2% were male, and 47.8% were Hispanic/Latinx. Over half of the patients (60.5%) were admitted to the hospital. Supplemental oxygen was used by 32.2%. Conclusion This study presents the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of ED patients with COVID-19 presenting to the largest healthcare system in Rhode Island. Continued analysis is warranted to provide further insight into the trends in this pandemic.