Join Shelby Adams and the ATS for this data-driven trauma program management webinar showcasing Doctors Hospital of Augusta (DHOA), an ACS verified Level II adult trauma center located in Augusta, Georgia. In a proactive approach to enhance services, the team identified a significant opportunity for improvement. In 2021, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) "wall times" were approaching an hour, prompting the need for a focused intervention.

Recognizing the critical nature of timely care, a goal was established to efficiently triage EMS patients and assume care within ten minutes of their arrival. Through a collaborative effort with ED leadership, a dedicated trauma nurse role was introduced. This nurse is responsible for promptly triaging EMS patients upon arrival, placing them on a specially designated stretcher, and obtaining necessary reports. In the event of a trauma, the ED charge nurse seamlessly assumes the role to ensure continuity of care.

To achieve this objective, a comprehensive approach was taken, including education initiatives, thorough review of EMS wall times, and the strategic implementation of dedicated nursing roles. The results of these efforts are noteworthy, with EMS wall times decreasing from over an hour to an impressive five minutes. This success underscores commitment to continual improvement and ensuring the highest standards of patient care at Doctors Hospital of Augusta.

Presenter: 

Shelby Adams RN, BSN, CEN, TCRN 

Shelby Adams of South Carolina has nine years of experience in emergency and trauma nursing. Beginning her journey at Doctors Hospital in 2020 as an ED Nurse, Shelby advanced to the role of Trauma Nurse Lead and now is the Performance Improvement Coordinator. She has presented posters at national trauma conferences and is committed to promoting best practices for trauma patients.