Emergency department and hospital crowding: causes, consequences, and cures
McKenna Peter, Heslin Samita M., Viccellio Peter, Mallon William K., Hernandez Cristina, Morley Eric J.,
소속 상세정보
( McKenna Peter )
Stony Brook University Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine
( Heslin Samita M. )
Stony Brook University Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine
( Viccellio Peter )
Stony Brook University Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine
( Mallon William K. )
Stony Brook University Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine
( Hernandez Cristina )
Stony Brook University Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine
( Morley Eric J. )
Stony Brook University Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine
Abstract
Overcrowding with associated delays in patient care is a problem faced by emergency departments (EDs) worldwide. ED overcrowding can be the result of poor ED department design and prolonged throughput due to staffing, ancillary service performance, and flow processes. As such, the problem may be addressed by process improvements within the ED. A broad body of literature demonstrates that ED overcrowding can be a function of hospital capacity rather than an ED specific issue. Lack of institutional capacity leads to boarding in the ED with resultant ED crowding. This is a problem not solvable by the ED and must be addressed as an institution-wide problem. This paper discusses the causes of ED overcrowding, provides a brief overview of the drastic consequences, and discusses possible cures that have been successfully implemented.
키워드
Crowding; Emergency service, hospital; Patient safety
원문 및 링크아웃 정보
등재저널 정보