Crowding of the emergency department and shortage of available beds in specialist departments have resulted in the phenomena of patients being placed on clinically inappropriate wards, also known as outlying or outlier patients and bedspacing. The use of outlying patients to optimize the patient flow throughout the hospital is not an undebatable solution, affecting both the patient and the nurses caring for them.

The aim of this study was to elucidate the consequences of outlier status within inpatient care. A literature review was conducted, including both qualitative and quantitative research received through a systematic literature search. Three themes emerged: The effected patient, Lack of teamwork and Acquired skill set. Being admitted as an outlying patient to a clinically inappropriate ward affected access to specialist care. Furthermore, feelings of uncertainty in being an outsider and suffering experienced in relation to healthcare.

The working environment of the nurse was affected, and lack of communication obstructed the continuity of care. The implying risks with a systematic usage of outlying patients to clinically inappropriate wards need to be taken into consideration. Reported effects on the implicated patients and nurses including emotional suffering, an unsustainable work environment and reductions in the quality of care. Existing research gap of outlying patient with regard of meeting the medical needs of an increasing ageing population with multiple comorbidities demand these matters to be taken seriously.