Emergency departments and the inappropriate attender--is it time for a reconceptualisation of the role of primary care in emergency facilities?
The appropriateness of Emergency Department (ED) usage is often questioned, with recognition at an international level of the growing prevalence of 'inappropriate attenders'. This term is used to describe individuals who present for treatment that could more appropriately be provided in the primary health care setting. This is an issue of concern for staff working in New Zealand Emergency Departments. The present article offers a review of currently identified issues concerning ED attendance, and examines the core question of the role of primary care in the Emergency Department. It asks whether this is an appropriate use of ED resources, and if so, what are the implications for the role of the emergency nurse?
Richardson
S
S
Christchurch Hospital Emergency Department.
D016529:Emergency Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006300:Health Services Misuse; D006801:Humans; D009722:Nurse Practitioners / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*