Zero Harm During Transition in Care From the Emergency Department to Medical/Surgical Units

Abstract

Background: 

Health care–related errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States. When evidence-based processes are applied, harm related to health care errors can reach zero.

Purpose: 

The purpose was to achieve zero preventable harm to patients during transitions in care from the emergency department (ED) to medical/surgical (Med/Surg) areas.

Methods: 

A performance improvement process was used to drive the evidence-based design to eliminate harm in transitions from the ED to Med/Surg units. Once initial design was complete, small tests of change were deployed until zero harm was achieved.

Results: 

Zero harm during transitions from the ED to Med/Surg areas was achieved. The use of formal performance improvement systems, tools, and evidence-based practices allows organizations to achieve and sustain zero harm during these transitions in care.

Conclusion: 

This transitions project met multiple objectives. In addition, throughput efficiencies were realized.