Selected Q&A on Bed Control Matrix Flowchart

• Does the admission preregistration process for the patient begin by telephone before the day of admit?
  
  Only three participants answered no.
  
• How many computer screens must be used for this admission information?
  
  Answers range from three to 27.
  
• If any, how many paper forms must the parent complete for the admission registration?
  
  Answers range from none to five.
  
• Who does the admission history and physical?
  
  Mostly RNs, but in two cases, nurse practitioners or MDs.
  
• Who escorts admits from emergency department (ED) to unit?
  
  Primarily ED nurses, although some facilities use technicians or care assistants.

Other questions

• Where is initial patient screening done?
  
• Who coordinates admission testing?
  
• Who notifies the receiving unit and how?
  
• Who is responsible for getting the room cleaned?
  
• If the correct bed is not in the room, who is notified and who is responsible for getting the correct bed in place?
  
• Where do the patient and family wait if a room isn’t available?
  
• Who orders home care?
  
• Who does patient and family teaching?
  
• Who schedules follow-up appointments?

Source: Medical Management Planning, Bainbridge Island, WA, and National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions, Alexandria, VA.