Evaluation of Shortening the Stay Time of Patients in an Emergency Medical Center (EMC)

응급실 환자의 응급의료센터 체류시간 단축프로그램 개발 및 효과

Purpose: The study evaluated a program to shorten EMC stay time. Methods: The subjects were EMC patients, and comprised a control group of 8,477 and an experimental group of 8,378. Data were collected from June 2006 to August 2007, and analyzed concerning stay time for doctor visit, decision making, and discharge. The data were analyzed by $X^2$-test and ANCOVA using SPSS14.0. Result: The stay time of doctor visit, decision making and discharge of the experimental group was significantly less compared to the control group. Using second and third grade triage criteria, the stay time of experimental group was statistically reduced from the control. Conclusion: The implemented shortening program was effective in reducing EMC stay time and increasing EMC effectiveness.