This was a staff-implemented project. Three of our staff nurses championed the change; they did the training of the rest of the staff.

Most emergency nurses, I think, would agree that it was difficult because many times patients just didn't fit into one of the three categories. The five-level system is a refinement; it is more scientific.

A Level 4 patient needs one resource; that could be something like a sprained ankle we have to splint. And a Level 5 requires no resources.

The No. 1 point of this program is that any waiting that has to happen is safe for those patients who have to wait.

An experienced nurse can tell immediately - from the patient's demeanor, skin color, behavior. You just know.

I know all the nurses and everybody else here. When you get used to somebody, it's hard to change. You trust your regular doctor and nurse.