الملخص الإنجليزي
Background: Overcrowding in the emergency department (ED) delays treatment and can
negatively affect patient outcomes. Introducing and modifying the current system to overcome
overcrowding is crucial for improving patient outcome.
Purpose: This study compared efficiency and quality measures between two models: the
physician-nurse team triage model and nursing-only led triage in the ED.
Methods: A retrospective comparison of two study periods was made, each utilizing a different
triage model: nurse-led triage in 2015 and physician-nurse team triage in 2018. The following data
were gathered from electronic medical charts and the National Mortality Registry: waiting time,
time to physician, return visits to the ED within 48 hours, time to disposition, time to radiology,
and various diagnostic test turnaround times (Complete Blood Count (CBC), Aerobic Blood
Culture (ABC), Anaerobic Blood Culture (ANBC), Thyroid Function Test (TFT), and troponin).
Result: Our analysis revealed that the mean length of stay, time to discharge, average time to
ABC, time taken for patients to be seen by a physician, and other factors decreased significantly
in the physician-led team system compared to the nurse-only led group.
Conclusion: The transition from a nurse-led to a physician-nurse team triage model demonstrated
enhanced patient flow and decreased overcrowding. As expected, greater collaboration between health team members always leads to more positive health outcomes. It provides comprehensive care as different professionals bring diverse expertise and perspectives, ensuring that all aspects of a patient's health are addressed. Moreover, it enhances Patient Satisfaction as patients benefit from a more coordinated approach to their care, leading to better experiences and outcomes. Finally, working together encourages the sharing of ideas and best practices, which leads to innovative solutions and improvements in patient care.
