Offload Delay
From EMS Wiki
| Abbreviation | OLD |
|---|---|
| Definition | a delay in the transfer of patient care responsibility from the ambulance crew to the receiving care provider entity |
| Related Terms | Hospital Diversion, Offload, Turnaround |
| Street Terms | Bed Delay, On the Wall, Wall Time |
| Related Topics | Offload Delay Policies |
| Document List | Offload Delay Document List |
An offload delay occurs when hospitals, at capacity, are unable to provide a bed or care for a patient brought in by ambulance. In this situation, paramedics continue to provide care to a patient at the hospital instead of hospital staff. Ambulances are unable to respond to emergencies until the hospital agrees to take full responsibility for the patient.
Contents |
Effects on EMS System
Offload delays are a significant challenge to EMS systems. EMS operations can be critically compromised when ambulances are held at hospital while waiting for receiving staff to assume responsibility. The primary cause of offload delays which affect system status is hospital overcrowding. Other causes of offload delays include inefficient offload procedures.
Solutions to Offload Delays
Finding solutions to eliminate offload delays is a priority to many EMS systems.
Transport to Alternate Facilities
Staffing of Paramedics in Emergency Rooms
Some EMS systems have paramedics staffed full-time at receiving facilities. Paramedics are able to care for a specified number of patients.[1]
Offloading Policies
For examples of agency offload policies, see Non-Emergent Offloading Policies.
References
- ↑ http://www.york.ca/NR/rdonlyres/nkplhqast5mhjs7ugotqhg34ejthh6rvtonqjwbdjsvrpob2h452gneqvd52qw6v6xpo3pow3houcp2qwdvpw5jqrb/rpt+8+cls+1.pdf
