The role of the emergency department observational unit

ED-based observation units are becoming increasingly used for the assessment and treatment of patients who may not require inpatient management or monitoring. Although not a substitute for an inpatient unit, the ED-based observation unit can be of great value in the more efficient management of certain groups of patients. The continued patient management in the ED observational unit offers the opportunity for a better definition of the patient's problem. ED-based observation units have the potential to increase patient satisfaction, reduce length of stay, reduce inappropriate admissions, improve efficiency of the ED, and improve cost effectiveness.