IMPROVING PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY CARE- BEST PRACTICES: SYSTEMIC REVIEW ARTICLE

Saif Helal Almutairi*, Hatim Faihan Alotaibi, Ibrahim Mohammed Alanazi, Adel Mohammed Aldukhain, Hamoud Ghayyadh Alanizi

ABSTRACT

Background: Overcrowding in pediatric emergency departments (EDs) poses significant challenges, impacting patient safety, care quality, and system efficiency. With nearly 800,000 children visiting EDs daily in the United States, overcrowding results from various factors including increased patient volume, resource fragmentation, and a shortage of subspecialists. This problem exacerbates delays in care, reduces patient satisfaction, and leads to adverse outcomes such as prolonged wait times and higher rates of medical errors. Aim: This review aims to identify best practices and strategies to improve pediatric emergency care, focusing on the roles of nursing, pharmacists, emergency teams, and health informatics in mitigating ED overcrowding. Methods: A systemic review of recent literature was conducted to assess various interventions and strategies for enhancing pediatric emergency care. The review included an evaluation of clinical pathways, LEAN methodology, staffing models, and performance measures. Results: Effective strategies to improve ED flow include the implementation of clinical pathways and evidence-based guidelines, which have been shown to reduce patient length of stay and optimize resource utilization. The LEAN methodology has proven successful in enhancing ED efficiency by eliminating waste and optimizing workflows. Innovative staffing models, including the integration of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, have also contributed to better management of patient flow. Health informatics plays a crucial role by utilizing electronic health records and predictive modeling to streamline processes and manage patient surges. Conclusion: Addressing ED overcrowding requires a comprehensive approach involving improvements in triage processes, medication management, team collaboration, and technological advancements. By integrating these strategies, pediatric EDs can enhance care quality, reduce overcrowding, and improve patient outcomes. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of these practices are essential to meet evolving patient needs and optimize emergency care.

Keywords: Pediatric emergency care, ED overcrowding, clinical pathways, LEAN methodology, staffing models, health informatics, patient flow, medication management.