Date of Award
2009
Embargo Period
8-1-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Health Administration
College
College of Health Professions
First Advisor
Kit N. Simpson
Second Advisor
Abby Swanson Kazley
Third Advisor
James E. Garrett
Abstract
With increasing scrutiny on the condition of the nation's emergency services and emphasis on patient satisfaction and pay for performance, Emergency Departments (EDs) are examining ways to improve public perceptions of satisfaction and quality. A reduction in ED wait times and left without being seen (LWBS) volumes can have a significant impact on patient satisfaction scores. The purpose of this study is to determine if placement of a mid-level provider in triage to perform medical screening exams (MSEs) will reduce ED wait times, increase efficient patient flow, and increase patient and staff satisfaction. For one hundred sixty nine days, a nurse practitioner was placed in triage to perform MSEs in the ED during peak times at Onslow Memorial Hospital. Twelve standardized days were determined to evaluate average arrival to disposition times. Patient and staff satisfaction surveys were conducted. Mid-level provider placement in triage will reduce ED wait times and improve patient satisfaction. The most significant benefit is seen in the efficient patient flow of lesser acuity patients.
Recommended Citation
Burlingame, Penney A., "The Effectiveness of Placing a Mid-Level Provider in Triage as an Intervention to Improve Patient Flow in the Emergency Department" (2009). MUSC Theses and Dissertations. 193.
https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/theses/193
Rights
All rights reserved. Copyright is held by the author.