Feinberg Mezzanine Care Expansion
In June 2010, the ED began caring for patients in a brand new space dedicated to the care of the emergency patient. Prior to opening, our ED simulation experts partnered with department staff to evaluate the space for potential safety threats using high fidelity simulators and patient actors. This study revealed several opportunities for improvement, resulting in implementation of operational changes prior to the use of the space for actual patient care. Shortly after its opening, the ED mezzanine became operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is one of the few departments to do this in the country. This mezzanine space consists of 22 care spaces, as well as 4 additional processing spaces that are fully equipped for care. The space has full staffing and equipment to care for any level of patient acuity or complexity, while maintaining a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction. Each room has a large private care area, sliding glass doors, and televisions, with several even containing windows with east-facing views to the Chicago Lakefront. In addition, there is an array of food options that can be provided to ED patients.
