Influenza Epidemic in NJ puts ER's operating at close to full capacity

Diversions are always bad in an ER situation. It means more delay when the patient is fragile. It could contribute to higher mortality rates due to the extended amount of time needed to transfer them further than normal. In the case of an epidemic with many ER's on diversion, then an ambulance must go sometimes to the next part of town or borough in an urban environment. They might have to go to the next town.
Not good, highly abnormal.

This backs up the ER, for the other patients are not being seen in which at best is not a timely manner to begin with.

Remember that many ER patients end up being admitted if in the kind of state in which an ambulance must bring them to the ER. That means even more delays, for someone must admit them to MED/SURG in many cases. That means delays, beds prepped, scurrying to bring an RN down. Some will go to be admitted to a surgical wing in worse cases.


[link to www.mycentraljersey.com]
"The flu epidemic gripping Central Jersey has forced rescue squads to consider transporting patients to hospitals outside their coverage area as emergency rooms are operating at near full capacity.

A survey of Central Jersey hospitals has revealed that emergency rooms and critical care units are operating close to maximum occupancy due to the flu outbreak.

Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge is on “bypass,” according to hospital spokesman Eric Muench.

“We’re seeing a lot of volume in the emergency room,” he said. “It’s a mix pf patients, not just those with the flu. We’re still receiving patients in the emergency room, but we’re notifying rescue squads if there is a place to bring a patient they should do so.”