Nurse triage errors and their relationship with patient outcomes in emergency departments

This study aimed to evaluate triage error of nurses and its relationship with triage outcomes in patients referred to the emergency departments. It specifically addressed the challenges, obstacles, and problems associated with the triage process. In this descriptive-correlational study, 323 patient triage records were selected using proportional stratified random sampling. Data were collected via a researcher-developed triage evaluation checklist validated by ten nursing faculty members. The checklist had three sections: factors affecting triage (including nurse characteristics and triage unit conditions), identification of triage errors, and triage outcomes. Additional data were obtained from patient history, physician orders, nursing reports, and case summaries when forms were incomplete. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistical tests in SPSS software. Findings The study found that the majority of triage nurses were female, and all had completed annual triage training courses. The overall rate of triage errors was 49%, with 31.3% over triage and 17.7% under triage. Adverse outcomes occurred in 62% of error cases and a statistically significant association was observed between errors and outcomes. The findings suggest that triage in emergency departments is frequently conducted insufficiently. It is imperative to implement comprehensive measures, including the recruitment of specialized personnel (such as physicians, nurses, and practical nurses), ensuring adequate staffing and equipment, conducting competency assessments, and providing simulation-based training. Furthermore, the adoption of standardized, evidence-based triage policies and procedures is essential to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of the process.