Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

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What is it called when an emergency department asks ambulances to bypass their hospital due to crowding?

  1. Diversion

  2. Handing off

  3. Dumping

  4. Boarding

The correct answer is: Diversion

When an emergency department requests ambulances to bypass their facility due to overcrowding, it is referred to as "diversion." This term is used to manage patient flow and ensure that those who are brought to the emergency department can receive timely and effective medical care. During periods of high patient volume, a hospital may need to divert incoming ambulances to other facilities that have the capacity to accept new patients safely. This practice is essential in maintaining the quality of care and responding adequately to incoming emergencies. It is important to understand that while diversion is a necessary measure during peak times, it also raises concerns about access to emergency care and the overall healthcare system's capacity. In contrast, options like handing off pertain to the transfer of patient responsibility between healthcare providers, dumping would suggest the inappropriate transfer of patients to another facility, and boarding involves the extended wait times for admitted patients in the emergency department while awaiting inpatient beds.