Continuous quality improvement reduces length of stay for fast-track patients in an emergency department

Objective: To demonstrate how continuous quality improvement (CQI) can identify rational and effective means to reduce length of stay for minor illness/injury in an ED. Methods: A CQI team documented the process of fast-track (FT) patient flow and prioritized the causes of delay. In Phase I, two solutions were implemented, In this Phase II of the study, three changes were implemented, including expansion of the FT area, realignment to provide a full-time FT nurse, and a detailed, stricter triage classification. The outcome was assessed by examining the interval from presentation to release from the ED (length of stay; LOS). Differences were ascertained by analysis of variance for consecutive FT patients not requiring radiography, EGG, or blood testing. Intervals from three pre-Phase II intervention 48-hour periods and one post-Phase II intervention 48-hour period were analyzed. Results: Before the Phase I changes, the mean +/- SD LOS was 92 +/- 46 min. After the Phase I changes, the LOS was 67 +/- 31 min, After the Phase II changes, this was reduced to 57 +/- 34 min (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The formal application of CQI techniques in the ED can change patient flow and reduce LOS for FT patients.