Investing in research studies remains a key priority at the Foundation. We are proud to have supported the 2021 Fraser Health Strategic Grant, a $10,000 grant that allowed Surrey Memorial Hospital’s research team led by Laurie Parker, Manager Clinical Operations, to complete the study: Exploring Inpatient Unit Nursing Experience with Emergency Department Crowding, Access and Flow and Associated Patient Outcomes.
The need for this study stemmed from ongoing challenges with the complexities of access and flow in a large health care facility. A limited number of existing studies on the subject were in circulation and this research captured staff perspectives of Emergency Department crowding and access flow. There was a clear need and opportunity to enhance both the patient and provider experience by conducting this study. The team set a goal of better understanding the inpatient unit nursing experience and enhancing the way they think about hospital flow, as well as improving access to Emergency and wait times for admitted patients to transfer to an inpatient hospital bed.
Through this study, the team was able to identify four workable themes that will help them better focus their efforts and look at hospital access and flow with an evidence-based lens. Knowledge gained from this study will also be shared through various forums including virtual sessions and publications. Way to go, Laurie and team!
