Keywords

hospital lengths of stay, hospital utilization, pneumonia

 

Authors

  1. Murphy, Mark RN, MS
  2. Noetscher, Cheryl RN, MS
  3. Lagoe, Ronald PhD

Abstract

Three large hospitals in the metropolitan area of Syracuse, New York, implemented a cooperative project to reduce hospital stays and resource utilization without adversely affecting patient outcomes for community acquired pneumonia. The project occurred under the leadership of nurse case managers and nurse managers. It was supported by active physician involvement. The project was implemented over a three-year period. It resulted in reductions of hospital stays through the standardization of patient care for pneumonia throughout the community.