Standard Operating Procedures for Fast Track Departments

Hospital emergency departments use standard operating procedures (SOP) and protocols that allow them to run smoothly and efficiently. A fast-track department refers to a section in the emergency department that treats minor injury and illness such as a broken arm or the flu. These departments are designed to see patients for whom admission into the hospital is unlikely. Standard operating procedures for a fast-track department may include protocols for patient registration, triage and assessing patients.

Patient registration

• Each patient who enters the hospital must register. Patient registration is a process in which information about the patient is collected and entered into a computer program that allows the hospital to keep track of the patient. Demographic information includes the patient's address, birth date and insurance information. A registration clerk will collect the necessary information and will place an identification bracelet on each patient. A standard operating procedures guide will include detailed instructions how and when to register each patient in the fast-track department.

Triage

• Triage refers to the process in which patients are seen and their condition assessed. SOP allows the triage nurse to determine the order that the physician will see patients. The order in which patients are seen and treated is dependent upon how serious their condition is. The SOP guide will include a list that describes which signs, symptoms and conditions get priority over others.

Patient assessment

• A nurse often performs patient assessment, which includes a physical examination, obtaining vital signs, and gathering information about the patient's medical history. Assessments provide information that helps determine the appropriate treatment and care. A fast track department treats patients that are released following their treatment. An SOP manual includes instructions on how long patients will remain in the emergency department following their treatment and how to discharge them.