Shahrzad Rasekhi, Sedighe Sadat Tabatabaei Far, Abdosaleh Jafari,
Volume 23, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: This study aimed to review the average waiting time of patients referred to emergency departments in Iran and to identify the key factors influencing it.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted in scientific databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Scopus, Web of Science, Magiran, and Civilica using keywords such as "waiting time", "duration", "emergency", and related terms. After applying the inclusion criteria, 26 relevant studies were selected for analysis.
Results: Findings from this rapid review showed wide variations in reported waiting times. The average time from patient arrival to the first physician visit ranged from approximately 2 to 32 minutes. The time to the first medical intervention ranged from 3.7 to 262 minutes. The time from diagnostic test request to receiving results ranged from 20.17 to 629.2 minutes for laboratory tests, 5.85 to 1080 minutes for radiology, and 3.7 to 32.3 minutes for electrocardiograms. The most significant factors affecting patient waiting times included patient-related characteristics, reasons for referral, hospital and emergency department-related factors, and human resource availability and performance.
Conclusion: Patient waiting times in emergency departments are influenced by a range of interrelated factors. To reduce delays, it is recommended to improve triage systems, enhance human resource management, implement smart technologies, upgrade infrastructure, and increase public awareness through patient education.
