Assessment of Patient Processing in Emergency Departments of Hospitals

Date

2009-10

Authors

Trial, Shaina L.

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Abstract

The purpose of this research is to develop an ideal model of patient processing for hospital Emergency Departments (EDs). Patients are harmed by process delay, not only by wasted time, but also by unnecessary suffering and adverse medical outcomes. The United States has nearly 5,000 EDs. These exist to provide emergency, medical care whenever it is needed. Emergency Departments function as public safety nets, catching people who have fallen prey to urgent illnesses or injuries. There has been increasing discussion regarding the ability of EDs to provide timely care to patients with emergency medical conditions. The inability to provide timely service results from overcrowded conditions and has been implicated in poor outcomes for patients with certain medical problems. Patient processing of EDs was assessed using interviews and direct observation. The study found several ways to expedite patient process. By applying the practical-ideal model for patient processing allows hospital administrators to implement a comprehensive, successful plan, without significantly changing their current process.

Description

An Applied Research Project Submitted to the Department of Political Science, Texas State University-San Marcos, in Partial Fulfillment for the Requirements for the Degree of Masters of Public Administration, Fall 2009.

Keywords

patient assessment, hospitals, emergency rooms, patient processing, emergency Room, options, assessment, patient flow procedures, patient flow expedite procedures, patient flow facilitate procedures, Public Administration

Citation

Trial, S. L. (2009). Assessment of patient processing in emergency departments of hospitals. Masters of Public Administration, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.

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