Faced with the constant challenge of an overflowing emergency department, Kaiser Permanente Richmond’s emergency nurses took the lead in redesigning workflows to maximize space and efficiency. Initially, the team creatively repurposed the nearby mammography waiting room, transforming it into an extension of the emergency department to see and treat patients quickly.
Building on this innovation, the nurses also collaborated to implement a mobile unit for rapid care, offering a more efficient and patient-centered solution compared to the previous use of emergency tents in the yard in front of the hospital. This forward-thinking approach improved patient flow, reduced wait times, and ensured patients received timely care—all while maintaining the high standards of quality and safety that define Kaiser Permanente Richmond.