Journal of emergency nursing : JEN : official publication of the Emergency Department Nurses Association
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In the emergency department, bedside whiteboards are used to help improve communication, teamwork, and collaboration among health care providers. In addition, previous studies have shown that whiteboards aid the patient with the identification of their health care providers, plan of care, expected length of stay, and overall patient satisfaction. ⋯ Proper materials (markers and erasers) are integral to bedside whiteboard use. Continued staff education on the function of bedside whiteboards may improve proper whiteboard use.
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Triage is a process by which patients are assessed, classified, and sorted based on their presenting complaint and clinical urgency, providing assurance for timely access to emergency care. The goal is to get the right person to the right place, in the right amount of time, for the right reason, and within the context of resource availability. ⋯ This paper discusses the importance of how triage process standardization improves patient care, resource management, and benchmarking at local, national, and international levels by applying 5 internationally recognized triage systems to fictional case studies. Evaluation of similarities and differences in severity scores, with a gap analysis, occurs.
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Editorial
The Game Is On and We're in the Ninth! Evolution of the Trauma Nursing Core Course, Ninth Edition.
Trauma is a global phenomenon resulting in the death of millions of people every year and affecting countless others. Foundational to excellence in trauma nursing, which contributes to optimal patient outcomes, is evidence-based education driven by best practices accompanied by a systematic approach to the assessment and care of the injured patient. ⋯ The 9th Edition, launched in July of 2023, continues to provide nurses worldwide with knowledge necessary based on current evidence-based literature and resources. A revision is an arduous process necessitating a concerted team approach involving Emergency Nurses Association member volunteers, internal and external experts, and a lot of dedication!
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High-frequency utilizers are defined as patients who present 10 or more times to the emergency department in a rolling 12-month period. High-frequency utilizers contribute to emergency department overcrowding and misuse of resources, and reduce the efficiency of health care systems. Care guides have proven to be an effective tool in reducing high-frequency utilizers. ⋯ The use of care guides was a successful strategy in reducing emergency department visits and the cost of unreimbursed care by high-frequency utilizers by providing them with the education and resources they require to receive health care services in appropriate settings.