Brit J Hosp Med
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Few performance management measures create as much heat and debate as the 4-hour target for emergency departments. This article critically reviews the history, evidence and effectiveness of the 4-hour standard for patients attending emergency departments.
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Sustainable and satisfying working practices in emergency medicine are vital to produce career longevity and prevent premature 'burnout'. A range of strategies is required to ensure success for the individual and the system in which he/she works.
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Exit block and crowding create conditions in emergency departments that can harm patients and the staff who look after them. Key to solving exit block is recognizing that it exists and that the whole hospital is involved in preventing harmful consequences.
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Workforce crises in medicine can be devastating for a specialty, patients and professionals. Emergency medicine and general practice are currently affected but other acute specialties are showing early signs and symptoms of the condition. While symptomatic treatments are helpful, recognition and treatment of the causes is critical.