Rachel Nowak argues that implementing recommendations about emergency department communication would make EDs faster, more efficient and more humane
Eighty fewer deaths were recorded in the year following the adoption of the 4-hour rule by the emergency departments (EDs) of three tertiary hospitals in Western Australia1 — equivalent to almost half the state road toll. This remarkable result is regarded by some as preliminary. But if it stands the test of time, it will be testament to what is achievable with good up-front resourcing from a health department, plus improved communication — in this case, between the ED and the wards.
The full article is accessible to AMA members and paid subscribers. Login to read more or purchase a subscription now.
Please note: institutional and Research4Life access to the MJA is now provided through Wiley Online Library.
- 1. Geelhoed GC, de Klerk NH. Emergency department overcrowding, mortality and the 4-hour rule in Western Australia. Med J Aust 2012; 196: 122-126. <MJA full text>
- 2. Hills DJ, Joyce CM, Humphreys JS. A national study of workplace aggression in Australian clinical medical practice. Med J Aust 2012; 197: 336-340. <MJA full text>
- 3. Slade D, Manidis M, McGregor J, et al. Communicating in hospital emergency departments. Final report — executive summary. Sydney: University of Technology, Sydney, 2011.
- 4. Trumble S. The risk of rudeness [editorial]. Clin Teach 2011; 8: 145-146.
- 5. Garling P. Final report of the special commission of inquiry: acute care in NSW public hospitals. Vol 2. Sydney: New South Wales Government, 2008. http://www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/Lawlink/Corporate/ll_corporate.nsf/vwFiles/E_Volume2.pdf/$file/E_Volume2.pdf (accessed Sep 2012).
I run a consultancy, Rachel Nowak and Associates, specialising in science policy, analysis and communication.