In this book Dr. Vukmir defines both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the emergency department( ED) practice.

The Emergency Department(ED) drives the efficiency of the remainder of the hospital, perhaps more than most other medical care unit. It is the front door of hospital and often forms the first impression of the facility.

Summary

The book begins with an outline of the efficacy, the "best circumstance" operation, versus effectiveness or "real world performance". This is followed by analysis of the efficiency, or "work product" based on resources utilized and outcome achieved. Through the benchmarking process, he attempts to "objectify" the care provided by physicians, mid-levels, nurses and ancillary care providers. The more subtle thematic aspects of ED operations and its interface with other hospital departments are also reviewed.

The text is subdivided operationally into distinct, yet still integrated working units such as patient intake, registration, testing and data processing, as well as the admission, consultation and discharge processes. Potential solutions are offered to the common issues of ED staffing, quality of care, operational efficiency, performance improvement and risk management issues.

The team approach is emphasized to achieve the best patient outcome possible in the ED.