How to Get a Handle on ED Overcrowding

When patients, information, and materials flow efficiently through the ED, all aspects of care there can improve significantly. Hospitals are working to implement various flow schemes—such as split flow, bed counting, and fast tracking—all in an effort to move patients more efficiently through the ED. They are also improving workflow management and using technology programs to reduce extensive patient waits.

These approaches are born from hospital leaders' awareness that quality of care is affected when ED patients are placed in holding patterns, or boarded. Overcrowding contributes to poor care, frustrated patients, increased costs, potential harm, and stress for both patients and staff. And the worst may be yet to come: Healthcare leaders overwhelmingly expect an increase in ED volume within the next three years—with 36% forecasting a major increase and 50% a minor increase, according to the May HealthLeaders Media Intelligence Report.

Read the full article at HealthLeaders Media