A Study to Determine the Best Method of Improving the Flow of Patients Through the Surgical Critical Care Units at Letterman Army Medical Center
Abstract
The study is an attempt to determine the most appropriate use of limited resources at Letterman Army Medical Center. A critical care bed shortage existed which prompted cancellation of surgeries and deferment of patients from the emergency room who were potential surgery candidates. Analysis of a sample of patients who were intensive care patients was done to ascertain which patients could have been cared for more efficiently in an intermediate care, or step down unit, if one existed at letterman. Chi-Square analysis, cost- effectiveness analysis, and forecasting were used. The study looked at nurse staffing patterns, operating room scheduling, and physician practice patterns. It was determined that an additional critical care or an intermediate care unit is not justifiable at letterman, but that or scheduling and physician practice patterns could be modified to improve the flow of patients through the surgical critical care units.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA237936
Entities
People
- Frances E. Davison
Organizations
- Academy of Health Sciences