The Relationship Between Accurate Triage and Core Measures Compliance for Acute Myocardial Infarction and Heart Failure in Older Adults Presenting to the Emergency Department.

Background: Accurate emergency department (ED) triage in the geriatric population is an important nurse-sensitive quality indicator; however, few quality indicators are verified for impact. Purpose: To examine the relationship between triage accuracy in adults older than 65 years and Core Measures for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and heart failure (HF). Methods: A correlational approach was used to determine strength and direction of the relationship between variables. Results: Strong positive correlations were found between triage accuracy and mortality for AMI and HF, as well as with 30-day hospital readmissions for AMI. A weak negative correlation was found between triage accuracy and 30-day hospital readmissions for HF. Conclusions: Accurate triage can lead to a more effective care trajectory for patients, better adherence to Core Measures, and better outcomes. Accuracy in triage for AMI and HF is a valid indicator of ED quality care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]