The Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Emergency Department implemented a comprehensive throughput strategy focused on daily performance reviews, interdisciplinary huddles, real-time census

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Emergency Department

monitoring and hospital-wide escalation processes. ED leaders, operations administrators, providers and nursing teams collaborate throughout the day to proactively address barriers to patient flow and bed placement. These efforts reduced admitted patient length of stay from 373 minutes in 2022 to 287 minutes in 2025 while improving throughput, decreasing boarding times and reducing left without being seen percentage to 0.3 percent, all of which enhanced patient access to timely care. The initiative demonstrated how multidisciplinary collaboration can drive sustained operational excellence and patient-centered outcomes.

The 62-bed department also prioritized creating a safer environment for staff, patients and families. In response to employee feedback regarding safety concerns, the ED implemented a walk-through weapons detection system monitored by security personnel and partnered with local law enforcement to provide an on-site police presence. These efforts have strengthened staff confidence, enhanced workplace safety and supported the delivery of high-quality patient care.