Bed utilization: a regional trial.

In mid-1992 a bed utilization study was implemented in four hospitals in Cape Breton. Over four months, 260 patients and charts were reviewed using the Appropriateness Evaluation Protocol (AEP). Results suggested that 21.5 per cent of the population was inappropriately admitted, had inappropriate days of care, or both. Pros and cons of the AEP were identified, and plans for implementing the AEP, together with clinical questions, have been endorsed by Cape Breton's Regional Services Committee. A subsequent study, to be published in the next issue of Leadership, discusses a review of the discharge planning process in Cape Breton Region.