title: Increasing ICU bed capacity cuts diversions.
abstract: A new study demonstrates a real dollar cost to diversions, which can give ED managers added ammunition when lobbying administration for increased bed capacity hospitalwide. Here are some strategies you can use: Point out the demonstrated link between increased bed capacity in the intensive care unit and reduced diversions. Emphasize the fact that when patients are boarded, staff morale is negatively affected. Because your ED may represent 30% of your hospital's volume, note the connection between improved flow and patient satisfaction.
mesh_terms: D000552:Ambulances; D004469:Economics, Hospital; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006742:Hospital Bed Capacity; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D009922:Oregon; D010360:Patient Transfer / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*