The study involved 203 two-hour observation periods of 85 physicians at two academic EDs. Researchers measured total number of interactions, distances walked, time sitting, patients simultaneously treated, interruptions, break-in tasks, physical contact with patients, hand-washing, diagnostic tests orders and therapies rendered.
Results showed physicians at academic EDs spend more time on indirect care activities than their community ED counterparts. Similarly, academic ED physicians spent less time in direct care activities than community ED physicians. Both groups of physicians frequently care for multiple patients at the same time.
Read the abstract of the study about ED physicians.
Read other coverage about EDs:
– Researchers Assess Accuracy of Radiology Readings in EDs
– Rapid Medical Screening Process Improves Patient Flow in EDs
– Study: CT Use in EDs Increased Six Fold From 1995-2007
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