Factors associated with patients' and companions' satisfaction with a hospital emergency department: A descriptive, cross-sectional study

Aim The aim was to study the level of satisfaction with an emergency department and to identify the factors associated with satisfaction. Design This research consisted of a descriptive, cross-sectional study. Methods The study population was composed of patients and companions who visited the emergency department during a three-month period. The patients were selected randomly from the register of visits to the emergency department during the period of study. Sociodemographic variables and variables related to the attention received were studied through questionnaires (response rate 33%). Results Older age was associated with greater satisfaction (p = 0.002), as was female sex (p = 0.013) and greater optimism (p < 0.001). Greater control of pain was a factor associated with satisfaction (p = 0.033), as was the perception of a shorter waiting time before the medical visit (p < 0.001).