Work

Nurse triage errors and their relationship with patient outcomes in emergency departments

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objective This study aimed to evaluate triage error of nurses and its relationship with triage outcomes in patients referred to the emergency departments. It specifically addressed the challenges, obstacles, and problems associated with the triage process. Materials and methods In this descriptive-correlational study, 323 patient triage records were selected using proportional stratified random sampling. Data were collected via a researcher-developed triage evaluation checklist validated by ten nursing faculty members. The checklist had three sections: factors affecting triage (including nurse characteristics and triage unit conditions), identification of triage errors, and triage outcomes. Additional data were obtained from patient history, physician orders, nursing reports, and case summaries when forms were incomplete. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistical tests in SPSS software. Findings The study found that the majority of triage nurses were female, and all had completed annual triage training courses. The overall rate of triage errors was 49%, with 31.3% over triage and 17.7% under triage. Adverse outcomes occurred in 62% of error cases and a statistically significant association was observed between errors and outcomes. Conclusion The findings suggest that triage in emergency departments is frequently conducted insufficiently. It is imperative to implement comprehensive measures, including the recruitment of specialized personnel (such as physicians, nurses, and practical nurses), ensuring adequate staffing and equipment, conducting competency assessments, and providing simulation-based training. Furthermore, the adoption of standardized, evidence-based triage policies and procedures is essential to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of the process.

Source: International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2025.100902

Authors: Mohammad Khajehgoodari, Babak Najafi, Ali Sabzi Matanagh, Mojgan Lotfi, Reza Shabanloei

Institution: Tabriz University of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Emergency and Acute Care Studies

Subfield: Emergency Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,130