Any studies were eligible for the review if they used computer technology for behavioural screening, interventions and/or referrals for patients presenting to the emergency department. They needed to address high-risk behaviours (as defined by individual study authors). Studies were excluded if they used personnel to deliver the intervention unless the key component of the intervention involved computers.
Most included studies targeted adults, but a small number focused on adolescents. The studies addressed: alcohol or substance abuse; injury; mental health issues; HIV risks; or a variety of behaviours. Most assessed screening for health behaviours but half also assessed interventions and a small number evaluated specialist referral. Comparisons were frequently made with some form of usual care although several studies did not use a comparison group. Most studies were conducted at a single centre with interventions ranging from one minute to 35 minutes where stated.Most of the studies were conducted in the USA. Finally, most addressed the feasibility and acceptability of the screening/intervention rather than patient-related outcomes.
More than one reviewer was involved in study selection for the review with discrepancies referred to a further researcher.