Journal of emergency nursing : JEN : official publication of the Emergency Department Nurses Association
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A nurse-initiated high dose, opioid protocol for vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) was implemented. Total intravenous morphine sulfate equivalents (IVMSE) in mgs] and safety was evaluated. ⋯ High opioid doses were safely administered to patients with sickle cell disease.
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Emergency department waiting rooms are high risk, high liability areas for hospitals. Patients who are greeted by non-clinical personnel or who are not being placed in available beds increases wait times and prevent patients from receiving timely treatment and access to care. ⋯ A system should be in place that allows for immediate bedding wherever possible. Transitioning to immediate bedding requires a culture change. Staff engagement is essential to achieving such a culture shift.