Challenges and Barriers Affecting the Quality of Triage in Emergency Departments: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Correct and fast triage is the key to successful performance in emergency departments. Various factors can affect the quality of triage; therefore, the present study was conducted to identify and explore the existing challenges in triage units in emergency departments. Materials and Methods: The present study was a qualitative exploratory work conducted via the content analysis approach. Data were collected using in-depth, semi-structured interviews, and focus group interviews. Accordingly, 22 in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted in with 18 triage nurses and four emergency medicine specialists on a face-to-face basis. Results: The challenges related to triage nurses fall into two subcategories; lack of clinical competency and psychological capabilities. The challenges related to emergency management consist of challenges in human resources management, structural, and performance. Conclusion: The challenges existing in triage units are influenced by factors related to triage nurses and emergency management. Emergency administrators can improve the effectiveness and quality of triaging patients by empowering triage nurses and removing structural problems in triage units.[GMJ.2019;8:e1619]