Speedy and satisfying: Real-time Location System increases Emergency Department efficiency and decreases frustration with finding medical equipment

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION We evaluated the impact of a real-time locating system on emergency department efficiency and frustration locating mobile otoscope/ophthalmoscope carts. DATA AND METHODS Thirty ED providers were selected on-shift, each serving as their own control. Investigators hid two mobile otoscope/ophthalmoscopes carts (with and without the RTLS device) equidistant from the center of a provider’s work area. Providers were timed finding both devices and were queried regarding feelings about the search experience. RESULTS RTLS was associated with statistically-significantly less time locating equipment (average of 25 vs. 92 seconds) and percent of providers requiring 30, 60, 90, and 120 seconds to find the device. Providers felt finding the mobile cart with RTLS was easier; all rated finding the RTLS-tagged cart as easy. Without RTLS, two-thirds of subjects reported either frustration or extreme frustration vs. 3% with RTLS. All differences in comparisons of subjective experience were statistically-significant. Annual time and cost saving with RTLS would be 116.4 hours ($9,135.66). CONCLUSION RTLS in EDs can decrease time and frustration associated with finding equipment and is cost-effective. Frustration is a common driver behind burnout in Emergency Medicine. Use of RTLS technology might improve the provider experience and, thereby, reduce burnout levels.