DOI: 10.4103/ahstj.ahstj_14_25 ISSN: 3117-5422

Impact of Pediatric Emergency Department Crowding on Patients, Staff, and Healthcare Systems in Riyadh

Khalid Abdulkarim Almuhana, Majed Mowanes Alruwaili, Osama Elshahat Mostafa Mohammed, Zulkiflu Musa Argungu, Layan Ehab Al-Ayyuti, Ali Alhaiti
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Abstract

Objective:

This study examined how patient volume and crowding in pediatric emergency departments (EDs) affect the quality of care, focusing on impacts on patients, healthcare staff, and the healthcare system.

Methods:

A cross-sectional design was used, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 134 randomly selected healthcare providers working in pediatric EDs across Riyadh. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied for data analysis.

Results:

Pediatric ED crowding significantly affected patients ( M = 4.26, standard deviation [SD] = 0.58, P = 0.001), resulting in lower satisfaction, delayed assessment and treatment, longer hospital stays, and increased mortality risk. Staff outcomes were similarly impacted ( M = 4.29, SD = 0.61, P = 0.001), including higher stress, increased exposure to workplace violence, and slower patient response times. System-level effects were also significant ( M = 4.27, SD = 0.55, P = 0.001), with prolonged ED stays, reduced efficiency, and increased operational costs.

Conclusion:

Crowding in pediatric EDs has a measurable negative impact on patient safety, staff well-being, and healthcare system performance. These findings highlight the need for evidence-based strategies to improve patient flow, optimize staffing models, and strengthen the efficiency and quality of pediatric emergency care in Riyadh.

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