Questions for new OB unit
The hospital that I work at will be opening an OB unit this fall. I am trying to compile a list of questions because many of the managers here do not have experience with labor & delivery.
Does anyone have a list of important questions to ask or know where I can find one? (I’m thinking things like who handles the birth certificates, how are charges billed, etc.)
I’d also like to know if anyone has suggestions about processes that have worked well for them.
Brianna Walter
Pre-registration supervisor
Baltimore Washington Medical Center
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Judy | Mar 13, 2009 | Reply
Know how EMTALA laws pertain to OB patients. This is very important
Jennifer Watkins | Mar 18, 2009 | Reply
Good communication with the OBGYNs who’ll be admitting is important. Encourage them to have expectant mother either call or come in for a pre-registration. That way, whenever they come in, paperwork and insurance information will be current.
Stephanie Smithson | Mar 25, 2009 | Reply
At our facility we do the following: charges are done by nursing on the unit and OB staff handles the birth certificate. Our OB staff also does a “quick reg” and then the patient information is faxed to us to complete in registration.
EMTALA is very similar to any ED process you already have in place: triage, ensure mother and baby are stable.
You need to make sure there is in place a way to charge and document also for OB checks / non-stress tests, circumcisions done after discharge and any other special things you have do in your OB department such as breastfeeding help, blood pressure checks or education.
The other area to watch is how your hospital will handle patients who just walk in and documentation of observation, nursing evaluation or inpatient.