Early Identification and Referral of Patients With Diabetic Foot Complications in the Emergency Department.

Background: Prolonged length of stay (LOS) in the emergency department (ED) and lack of post-ED follow-up pose a risk of worsening infection and amputation among patients with diabetic foot complications.

Local Problem: Excessive ED LOS posed a risk of delayed foot care, and triage providers underutilized post-ED telehealth referrals.

Interventions: A graphic icon on the ED dashboard, nurse-initiated order set, and staff education were implemented.