This set point will then initiate the contingency plan where additional nurse or physician staff is called in. A policy and procedure is used to define the number and type of staff that needs to be called in. If there are additional areas that could be utilized for ED patients such as a nearby fast track, urgent care or outpatient area, the additional staff may be used to open up these additional areas. Some of the staff may have to provide a different level of responsibility shifting their duties from acute emergency care to in-patient nursing. Physician Assistants Can Complement ED Team with Lower-Cost Practitioners.
Managers ask and answer.
Formula for emergency physicians staffing. A national survey. Hospital overcrowding and emergency department backup. A Team Approach. 1992 Emergency Department Summary.