The Advocate Condell Medical Center Emergency Department implemented a Medical Screening Exam program to evaluate patients at the front end of care and begin treatment sooner.

Advocate Condell Medical Center

Providers, nurses and support staff work as a team to quickly assess needs, initiate diagnostic testing and support timely clinical decision making. The MSE program reduces delays, improves patient flow and enhances the overall patient experience. By focusing on early intervention, clear communication and efficient throughput, the ED continues to strengthen access to emergency care with the goal of maintaining a left without being seen rate below 1 percent.

The 45-bed ED also sustained blood culture contamination rates below the 2.3 percent target consistently since the first quarter of 2024, which leads to safer, more accurate patient care. This achievement reduces unnecessary antibiotic use, repeat testing and diagnostic delays. Success was driven by a standardized quality-improvement process that includes monthly data review, trend monitoring, competency validation, direct observation of blood culture collection techniques and real-time coaching. Through accountability, education and timely feedback, front-line nurses consistently maintain best practices to ensure reliable results and improve patient outcomes despite high patient volumes and ongoing staff onboarding.

ving facilities.