E.D. Protocols

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Specializes in ICU, CVICU, E.R..

What are the general protocols to follow when you recieved an assualted patient "A" and recieved a phone call from someone on the other line asking if you have patient "A" in your E.D.?

Also, on 2 occasions the MD says it is ok for anyone who knows the patient to pick him/her up after being medically cleared.

Is there an protocols in place to protect the patient from those who want to cause any more harm? How do we know if the person/s calling and offering to pick up a patient are friend or foe?

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Patients should be able to opt out as far as being identified as a patient who is present in the facility. If they opt out, anyone calling for info is given nothing. If they choose to not opt out, that is up to them. If they aren't conscious to make that decision, I see your concern and would be wary — I know we don't want someone coming to finish what they started, right?

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Emergency, CEN.

I work in an urban hospital. All assault patients are automatically placed on privacy protocols or the hospital on lock down depending on the situation.

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I work in an urban hospital. All assault patients are automatically placed on privacy protocols or the hospital on lock down depending on the situation.

This. Any assault is DNA.

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Specializes in ICU, CVICU, E.R..

Both instances my patients were passed out from being too drunk. There were brought in by EMS after being involved in bar fights with other

patrons. It just concerned me when people started calling saying they were "friends" of both patients (separate incidents happening weeks apart). I can see where it would be so easy for someone with malicious intent to pretend to be who they are not and just pick up the patient.

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For an adult that comes in alone EMS, I always ask their permission and chart it before I give out any info. If they are passed out, they cannot give permission

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Specializes in Urgent Care NP, Emergency Nursing, Camp Nursing.

If the patient isn't able to tell you who these people are, why are you letting them out of your department, "responsible adult" on hand or not?

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