After arriving at an ED, if a patient wants to change their destination, what should you do?

When a patient expresses a desire to change their destination after arriving at the emergency department (ED), the appropriate action is to not divert and instead transfer care to the hospital staff. This approach is vital for several reasons.

First, once a patient is at the ED, they are under the care of the hospital staff who are equipped to assess their immediate medical needs and are responsible for their ongoing treatment. As an emergency medical provider, your primary obligation is to ensure that the patient receives proper care from trained professionals who can provide a full evaluation and necessary interventions based on their condition.

Additionally, allowing the patient to divert to another location without proper medical justification could lead to several safety and liability issues. If a patient requires stabilization or immediate care, leaving the ED could put their health at risk. Proper protocols dictate that the patient’s care should be handled by the hospital clinicians who can decide on the best course of action regarding their medical needs.

Moreover, by documenting the request and informing the hospital staff of the patient’s wish, you ensure that there is a record of the patient’s decision. This documentation can be essential for legal and clinical reasons. Thus, transferring care not only maintains responsibility but also upholds the standards of patient safety and care continuity.