Impatto del Process Nurse sul sovraffollamento del Pronto Soccorso e sulla continuità delle cure: studio trasversale presso il Policlinico Universitario di Bari

Veronica Tinelli; Antonio Mangialardo; Giovanni Caito; Giovanni Salvatore; Adriana Sgarra; Francesco Pastore

doi:10.54103/dn/30691

Authors

Veronica Tinelli Mater Dei Hospital, Bari, Italy https://orcid.org/0009-0004-9538-3960
Antonio Mangialardo Emergency and Acceptance Department, Bari University Hospital, Bari, Italy
Giovanni Caito Emergency and Acceptance Department, Bari University Hospital, Bari, Italy
Giovanni Salvatore Emergency and Acceptance Department, Bari University Hospital, Bari, Italy
Adriana Sgarra Emergency and Acceptance Department, Bari University Hospital, Bari, Italy https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7985-7080
Francesco Pastore Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J),, University of Bari Aldo Moro https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5491-2759

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54103/dn/30691

Keywords:

Emergency Department, Process Nurse, Overcrowding, Evolution and Continuity Of Care

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Emergency Department overcrowding compromises care quality, safety, timeliness of treatment, and staff well-being. The Process Nurse has been introduced as an advanced role aimed at optimizing clinical care pathways and improving continuity of care.

OBJECTIVES: The objective was to analyze the perceptions of the multidisciplinary healthcare team regarding the role of the Process Nurse within the ME.CH.A.U. Unit of the Policlinico of Bari, assessing its organizational, clinical, and communicative impact throughout the care process.

METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted from July to December 2024 involving 74 healthcare professionals. A validated questionnaire, administered both online and in paper format, was used. It consisted of 23 items addressing role understanding, competencies, training, and the perceived effectiveness and efficiency of the Process Nurse.

RESULTS: A total of 83% of participants expressed an overall positive evaluation of the role. Improved quality of care was acknowledged by 84% of respondents, while 80% reported increased patient satisfaction. Additionally, 67% perceived a reduction in waiting times, and 58% noted fewer delays during the care process. Seventy percent reported improved interprofessional dynamics, although only 34% perceived consistent medical support.

CONCLUSIONS: The Process Nurse is perceived by multidisciplinary staff as a strategic figure in managing overcrowding and optimizing care pathways, contributing to enhanced quality, safety, and organizational efficiency. Nonetheless, clearer operational role definition, strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration, and the assurance of consistent medical support remain essential to fully consolidate this professional role.

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