Date of Award
Spring 5-2024
Document Type
DNP Project
Project Team Faculty Member
Dr. Theresa Marcotte
Project Team Faculty Member
Dr. Amy Hamilton
Keywords
emergency department throughput, discharge lounge, emergency department overcrowding, emergency department boarding, patient flow, and capacity management
Abstract
Efficient hospital throughput is crucial for maintaining quality patient care and managing healthcare resources effectively. This project examines the relationship between hospital throughput, measured by discharge lounge utilization, and the National Emergency Department Overcrowding Scale (NEDOCS) score. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative analysis of discharge lounge utilization data with qualitative assessment of staff perceptions and operational challenges. The project was conducted over nine months in a large urban hospital. Results indicate a significant correlation between discharge lounge utilization rates and NEDOCS scores, suggesting that higher levels of discharge lounge utilization are associated with NEDOCS score improvement. Furthermore, qualitative findings reveal various operational barriers and staff perspectives influencing hospital throughput. This project contributes to a better understanding of the complex factors impacting hospital throughput and provides insights for improving healthcare delivery processes to enhance patient flow and alleviate overcrowding in emergency departments.
Recommended Citation
Goneh, Jessica and Comonal, Areo, "Discharge Lounge Utilization" (2024). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 319.
https://spark.siue.edu/dnpprojects/319
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Literature Review
Conceptual Framework 5_4_23_FINAL.docx (16 kB)
Conceptual Framework
Project Methods 5_4_23_FINAL.docx (13 kB)
Project Methods
Evaluation 4_24_24 Final Goneh_Comonal.docx (298 kB)
References_SPARK.docx (21 kB)