Date of Award
Summer 1990
Document Type
Thesis - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Nursing
First Advisor
Wake, Madeline
Second Advisor
Weis, Darlene
Third Advisor
Klassen, Loretta
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the status and utilization of patient classification systems in Wisconsin Emergency Rooms. The design chosen was a descriptive exploratory survey for the purpose of establishing a reference base. The sample was inclusive of 120 JCAHO accredited acute care hospitals in the state of Wisconsin. Less than half, 42.5% of Wisconsin emergency departments utilize a patient classification system. There were two research questions: what types of patient classification systems are presently in use and how are these patient classification systems utilized by emergency room nurse managers. The type of patient classification system was a prototype evaluation (81.1%), with increments of nursing time and medical diagnosis identified as the most frequent critical indicators of care. Emergency room nurse managers utilize patient classification systems for the purposes of: charging for nursing service, justifying staffing, and trending of data. Emergency room patient classification systems are in the infancy stage of development and require further research and refinement, in order to reach their potential for credibility and usefulness to nurse administrators and the speciality [sic] of emergency nursing.
Recommended Citation
McSherry, Rosanne M., "Status and Utilization of Patient Classification Systems in Wisconsin Emergency Rooms" (1990). Master's Theses (1922-2009) Access restricted to Marquette Campus. 3626.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/theses/3626