
Decrease and Smooth Variation:
Establish an Emergency Department Fast Track
Establishing a "fast-track" process for patients with urgent conditions that can be treated relatively quickly can reduce extensive waits and improve overall flow of patients through the emergency department. A physician often can treat a fast-track patient while waiting for test results for a more seriously ill or injured patient. A separate process can also be established for patients who require additional observation, such as patients with chest pain or asthma. Implementing a fast track can reduce the overall length of a patient’s stay in the emergency department and increase patient and staff satisfaction.
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