Take a deep breath . . . and talk

Rachel Nowak argues that implementing recommendations about emergency department communication would make EDs faster, more efficient and more humane

Eighty fewer deaths were recorded in the year following the adoption of the 4-hour rule by the emergency departments (EDs) of three tertiary hospitals in Western Australia1 — equivalent to almost half the state road toll. This remarkable result is regarded by some as preliminary. But if it stands the test of time, it will be testament to what is achievable with good up-front resourcing from a health department, plus improved communication — in this case, between the ED and the wards.