The Triage Model in the Emergency Department of Nan Hospital
Keywords:
Nurse, Triage model, Emergency DepartmentAbstract
This research aimed to develop a triage model in the Emergency Department of Nan Hospital. The four steps were: 1) Studying the problem and basic triage needs by analyzing accident and emergency medical records to evaluate patient screening, and by a focus group discussion with 16 emergency nurses; 2) Constructing a model and verifying model quality; 3) Applying the model to 23 emergency nurses, and; 4) Evaluating via 12 people involved in the triage model. Data were collected by the triage knowledge test, the triage practice test, NEWS score assessment form, pediatric screening tool, emergency severity index, the questionnaire on training activities, and the triage opinion assessment form. Quantitative data analyzed used means and percentages, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.
The results revealed two aspects of basic triage needs: the triage model, and characteristics and competency of triage nurses. The triage model consisted of knowledge preparation and readiness of triage nurses, tools, and competency and workload of triage nurses. The results showed that application of the model led to increased knowledge and decreased in triage errors among nurses, as well as increased understanding and confidence. Triage assessments tools helped nurses make better operational decisions.The multidisciplinary team agreed that the model was practical and appropriate in the research setting. The results suggest that triage competency should be defined as a necessary competency of emergency department nurses. Hospitals should support and promote the development of triage competency among nurses and multidisciplinary groups working together in order to increase the efficiency of emergency department care.
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