Table 2.
Descriptor categories and frequencies.
| Rank | Keyword category | Prevalence n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gastrointestinal keywords Diarrhea Vomiting Other GI-symptoms (anal incontinence, haematemesis) |
54 (40%) 35 (26%) 29 (22%) 7 (5%) |
| 2 | Altered mental status Descriptions containing: loss of/altered level of consciousness, unresponsiveness, suspicion of stroke, confusion, disorientation, delirium, unable to speak, agitation |
47 (35%) |
| 3 | Weakness, legs Descriptions containing: unable to stand, unable to walk, unable to move, bedridden/is lying down, need assistance standing/walking |
45 (33%) |
| 4 | Malaise Descriptions containing: unwell, sick, ill, turn for the worse, deteriorated condition |
42 (31%) |
| 5 | Pain Abdominal, back, chest, general, head, legs |
21 (16%) |
| 6 | Dehydration Described as such. |
19 (14%) |
| 7 | Abnormal body temperature Description of fever or elevated temperature Hypothermia, or patient is cold Shivering |
16 (12%) 11 (8%) 4 (3%) 2 (2%) |
| 8 | Respiratory keywords Description containing: shortness of breath, difficulties breathing, coughing, suspicion of respiratory infection |
16 (12%) |
| 11 | Loss of energy Descriptions containing: weakness, lethargic or similar expressions |
13 (10%) |
| 11 | Reduced oral intake of food, fluid or medicine | 13 (10%) |
| 11 | Cardiovascular keywords Hypotension, or low blood pressure Tachycardia, or fast heart rate Weak pulse |
13 (10%) 12 (9%) 1 (1%) 1 (1%) |