Date of Paper/Work
8-2017
Type of Paper/Work
Doctor of Nursing Practice Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Department
Nursing
First Advisor
Nanette Hoerr
Department/School
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Abstract
This QI Project was inspired by a concern and belief that a hospital emergency department (ED) can more effectively respond to and manage the mental health patient population by improving its triage process. When a patient in mental health crisis presents to the emergency department (ED) for care, the triage process often results in patients having multiple encounters with various staff asking the same questions over and over. Many times, staff query patients about issues that are considered non-essential. Patients are often frustrated by this repeated questioning and therefore, the ability to develop or maintain a positive therapeutic relationship is compromised. Patients often shut down, become increasingly agitated, are mistrustful, and even walk out of the ED without receiving care. The following initiative focuses on identifying and addressing system level barriers that impede the ability to triage mental health patients seeking care in the ED. At the conclusion of this QI project, practice changes include the reduction of door to doc time, enhanced communication between staff and clarification of assigned roles and duties, and a streamlined workflow process.
Recommended Citation
Wurdelman, Kelly Carter. (2017). Triage Guidelines for Providers Interfacing with Mental Health Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/dnp_projects/91
Executive summary