Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Mattie Burton

Abstract

The problem of excessive wait time in the Emergency Department (ED) is a barrier to receiving access to assessment and treatment for patients seeking care in the United States. This project sought to understand the success factors that help implement and sustain wait time management strategies (WTMS) and ensure reduction of wait times in hospital Emergency Departments. This study addresses the gap in practice of few documented success factors that are proven methods in clinical practice for reducing patient wait time or sustainability. Retrospective studies, randomized controlled trials, and prospective observational studies were included in this project. An exhaustive comprehensive search of Walden University databases was conducted. Analysis was performed and included a critical review of study methods, outcomes, and applicability to clinical practice. The PRISMA checklist was the model used to guide the systematic review protocol. Twelve research articles included factors or models influencing successful strategies, initiatives at the organizational level, and national or provincial level strategies or policies addressing WTMS. Results of this study showed that the most effective and feasible intervention for implementation and sustainability of WTMS are SMS text messaging, direct consultation to senior physicians, and standardization of the admission process. Findings will help hospital managers and decision makers better manage wait times in the ED by presenting strategies for effective wait-time management and sustainability for timely and adequate ED services. This project supports positive social change through recommendations to reduce mortality rates, lower healthcare expenditures and improve overall patient outcomes in the ED setting.

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