A study of the workforce in emergency medicine: 2007 research summary

J Emerg Nurs. 2010 Nov;36(6):e1-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jen.2009.12.022. Epub 2010 Feb 16.

Abstract

Introduction: This paper summarizes nurse-specific elements reported in a study of the emergency medicine workforce in 2007.

Methods: In 2008, surveys were distributed to over 2600 ED medical directors and nurse managers in the United States.

Results: The response rate was 21% from nurse managers. Registered nurses (RN) in staff positions are 37.9 years of age. The most common highest level of education is and associate degree (46%). The predominant workforce is RNs with a fixed assignment to the emergency department. Geographic relocation (46%) was the most common reason cited for resignations. Nurse practitioner positions continue to increase. ED volumes continue to increase. Study respondents reported the largest increase in urgent care/fast track service areas. Throughput time from registration to discharge was reported as 158 minutes. Boarding patients in the emergency department is a common practice, and nurse managers reported boarding as an issue that impacts quality care 67% of the time.

Conclusion: ED volumes continue to increase significantly. Innovative nurse staffing and retention programs are required to meet future challenges of emergency patient care.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Data Collection / methods
  • Data Collection / statistics & numerical data
  • Emergency Medicine*
  • Emergency Nursing*
  • Emergency Service, Hospital*
  • Humans
  • Nurse Practitioners / statistics & numerical data
  • Nurses / statistics & numerical data*
  • United States
  • Workforce