Emergency Department

The Emergency Department has 27 beds, an urgent care area with 6 expandable overflow beds used during peak hours. Our patient population spans newborn to geriatrics; approximately 25% of our population is pediatric. Our average daily volume is 120 patients per day. Over the past year alone we experienced a 12% growth in annual volume with 41,468 visits for FY 2008. The Emergency Department is composed of a dynamic group of medical professionals with a real passion for caring for the community. Our current nurse to patient ratio is 1:4.

Level of technology includes:

• Computerized documentation with physician order entry
• On-line MAR with bar coding to ensure patient safety
• Emergent bedside ultrasound
• The latest technology for difficult intubations

Attractive aspects of working here:

• Friendly, community atmosphere
• New hires receive a customized comprehensive orientation that includes both clinical and didactic information
• New hires, if not already certified, receive ACLS training at the cost of the hospital
• Self-scheduling
• Every other weekend and holiday package scheduling
• Opportunities to be involved in unit based committees
• Many other educational opportunities

Management style:

There is a high expectation for clinical excellence within the department and evidence-based practice is promoted. Team leaders are advocates of continued education and both professional and individual growth. Leadership is visible, accessible and approachable and welcomes suggestions and involvement in improving the department.

Charge nurses are responsible for the operation of the Emergency Department 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and their duties include managing patient flow within the Emergency Department and serving as a resource person/point of contact for ED staff and other units within the hospital. Our charge nurses consistently maintain open lines of communication with staff and encourage a team-based approach to providing patient care