The nursing triage process: A video review and a proposed audit tool

Abstract

Objective - To review the activity of the nurse triage process. Setting - The triage room for adults attending the accident and emergency department of the Cardiff Royal Infirmary. Methods - 226 triage processes were videotaped over 31 h during July 1994. Activities were subsequently analysed using a specially designed chart. Results - Areas for improvement in staff communication skills and patient privacy were identified. Conclusions - The use of video in the triage room allows assessment of the triage process and is a valuable aid to training. Additionally, a potential visual audit tool has been identified.