NIAGARA FALLS — The Niagara Falls Emergency Department has reduced wait times and improved patient safety by introducing nurse practitioners to assess patients shortly after they arrive. The model, launched earlier this year, allows these advanced practice nurses to order tests, begin treatments and answer questions while patients wait to see a physician. Brandy Hillyard, manager of the Niagara Falls Emergency Department, said the role was introduced to address increasing patient volumes and challenges accessing timely care. Since its implementation this summer, the department has seen shorter waits to see a clinician and a significant decrease in the number of people leaving before being seen.

"We introduced this role to help address increasing patient volumes, long wait times and challenges accessing timely care," said Hillyard. "Having an NP involved early means patients aren't waiting as long for that first conversation about their care, and we're already seeing the positive impact that can have for both patients and staff." She noted the role has helped physicians and frontline teams better manage busy periods. The model was first implemented successfully at the Welland and Marotta Family hospitals before being introduced at the Niagara Falls Hospital.

Ashley Kehoe, a nurse practitioner in the Niagara Falls Emergency Department, said her role allows her to assess patients, order tests and start treatments for symptoms like pain or nausea. "As a Nurse Practitioner, I can assess patients shortly after they arrive, order tests, start treatments for symptoms like pain or nausea, and follow up on results while they wait to see a physician," Kehoe said. "That allows us to identify serious concerns sooner and help move care forward earlier in the visit." She added that the early interaction provides reassurance during what can be a stressful experience for many patients who arrive feeling anxious or uncertain.

"Many people arrive feeling anxious, vulnerable or uncertain about what's happening," said Kehoe. "We can answer questions, explain what to expect and help patients better understand their hospital journey." Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with extensive additional training who work alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals. Kehoe said they also help keep a close watch on patients in the waiting room, working with nursing staff to identify anyone whose condition may be changing.

"We're another set of eyes watching over patients between triage and physician assessment," she said. "That helps us recognize when someone's condition is changing and ensure they receive the attention they need." Hillyard said the role has become an important part of how the emergency department responds to growing demand for care. "What makes this model work is the way it brings our care teams together," she said. "NPs work closely with physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals to help make sure patients get the care they need, when they need it." For Kehoe, the value of the role is helping patients feel cared for from the moment they arrive. "When patients know someone is listening to their concerns and helping move their care forward, it can make a real difference in their experience," she said. "That's what this role is all about."