[A project to reduce waiting time during peritoneal dialysis visits].
This study aimed to reduce the length of waiting time for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Long waiting times and over-crowding in the waiting area were two of the most frequent complaints among PD patients at a peritoneal dialysis center. The center carried out a survey to investigate patients' satisfaction with their visit and the length of time they had to wait during their visit. The average waiting time was 88.3 minutes, and the average score for satisfaction was 78. After a Cause-and-Effect diagram analysis, recommendations to improve patient visits were as follows: (1) establish a computerized appointment system, (2) provide designated arrival times, (3) reorganize visit procedures, (4) integrate the pre-visit preparation process, and (5) rearrange the waiting areas. With better processes, patients might obtain thorough evaluations and nursing care while waiting. Two months after the implementation of these proposals, the average waiting time had shortened to 27.4 minutes, and scores for satisfaction had increased to 86, showing the proposed measures to be highly effective.
Chuang
Hsueh-Fang
HF
Department of Nursing, National Taiwan University Hospital.
Chan
Shu-Jen
SJ
Lin
Yen-Chun
YC
D001071:Appointments and Schedules; D006801:Humans; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010530:Peritoneal Dialysis; D013997:Time Factors