A Study of the Workforce in Emergency Medicine: 2007 Research Summary

Introduction: This paper summarizes nurse-specific elements reported in a study of the emergency medicine workforce in 2007. Methods: In 2008, surveys were distributed to over 2600 ED medical directors and nurse managers in the United States. Results: The response rate was 21% from nurse managers. Registered nurses (RN) in staff positions are 37.9 years of age. The most common highest level of education is and associate degree (46%). The predominant workforce is RNs with a fixed assignment to the emergency department. Geographic relocation (46%) was the most common reason cited for resignations. Nurse practitioner positions continue to increase. ED volumes continue to increase. Study respondents reported the largest increase in urgent care/fast track service areas. Throughput time from registration to discharge was reported as 158 minutes. Boarding patients in the emergency department is a common practice, and nurse managers reported boarding as an issue that impacts quality care 67% of the time. Conclusion: ED volumes continue to increase significantly. Innovative nurse staffing and retention programs are required to meet future challenges of emergency patient care.