Accelerated Discharge of Patients During Major Incidents
Author Information
Author(s): Kirsty Challen, Darren Walter
Primary Institution: South Manchester University Hospitals Trust
Hypothesis
How many hospital beds can be freed up during a major incident and what support is needed from Primary Care Trusts?
Conclusion
Primary Care Trusts should plan for surge capacity to support acute trusts during major incidents.
Supporting Evidence
- 302 beds could be generated within 12 hours of a major incident.
- 150,000 population would require 30 residential placements and 25 community support packages.
- 43% of patients dischargeable in 1–4 hours are elective or semi-elective preoperative patients.
Takeaway
In case of a big emergency, hospitals can quickly free up beds by sending some patients home or postponing surgeries.
Methodology
Surveys of hospital bed occupancy were conducted over 12 days across 3 months to assess discharge capacity.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from using only documented information and the single researcher approach.
Limitations
The study may underestimate potential discharges as it relied on nursing notes and a single researcher.
Participant Demographics
Patients included both elective and semi-elective preoperative patients, with a mix of ages and genders.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website