Background:

The evolution of emergency departments added further complexity to the framework of nursing interventions. Understanding this evolution is vital to efficiently manage resources and ensure patients the provision of safe care.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to describe nursing interventions provided to patients in emergency departments.

Methodology:

A qualitative approach using a descriptive and exploratory methodology was employed by this study, involving two consecutive stages - (1) identification of nursing interventions using non-participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and a questionnaire, and (2) content analysis of the identified interventions.

Results:

A total of 1,429 interventions were identified and categorized into 24 dimensions. The most commonly observed interventions were Administration of medication, Clinical assessment, Collection of biological specimens, Management of clinical information, and Maintaining the department’s functioning.

Conclusion:

The identified interventions show nurses’ broad range of practices that surpass direct patient care, encompassing the management of workflows and clinical information. The study findings emphasize the significance of further understanding nursing interventions for the optimal management of emergency departments.

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