RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Health care-related errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States. When evidence-based processes are applied, harm related to health care errors can reach zero. PURPOSE: The purpose was to achieve zero preventable harm to patients during transitions in care from the emergency department (ED) to medical/surgical (Med/Surg) areas. METHODS: A performance improvement process was used to drive the evidence-based design to eliminate harm in transitions from the ED to Med/Surg units. Once initial design was complete, small tests of change were deployed until zero harm was achieved. RESULTS: Zero harm during transitions from the ED to Med/Surg areas was achieved. The use of formal performance improvement systems, tools, and evidence-based practices allows organizations to achieve and sustain zero harm during these transitions in care. CONCLUSION: This transitions project met multiple objectives. In addition, throughput efficiencies were realized.