Leading healthcare transformation

The Policy Development Committee at your hospital was established to research and develop draft policies that may be adopted by the organization. As the nurse manager of the Medical-Surgical Unit and the newest member appointed to the Policy Development Committee, you have been asked to propose a policy for review that is based on a workplace issue. You draft a policy proposal to share with the committee at the next monthly committee meeting. As part of your search of credible resources, you find examples of workplace policy issues identified by the ANA (2020) including:

Nurse Staffing
Health and Safety
End Nurse Abuse
Violence, Incivility, and Bullying
Instructions

Describe a workplace issue that requires policy change. Then do the following:

Create an evidence-based policy recommendation that includes:
Policy recommendation with a synthesis of supporting evidence
Reasons for decision
Alternate options
Background information

Full Answer Section

         
  • Nurse staffing shortages can lead to increased stress, burnout, and job dissatisfaction among nurses. (Hayes et al., 2018)
  • Adequate staffing is essential for ensuring patient safety and preventing medical errors. (Institute of Medicine, 2000)

Reasons for Decision:

  • Patient Safety: Ensuring adequate nurse staffing is crucial for patient safety, as it allows nurses to provide timely and effective care.
  • Nurse Well-being: A safe staffing ratio can help to reduce nurse burnout and improve job satisfaction.
  • Improved Quality of Care: Adequate staffing can lead to improved patient outcomes, such as reduced mortality rates and shorter length of stay.

Alternate Options:

  • Flexible Staffing: Implement flexible staffing models, such as float pools or agency nurses, to supplement regular staffing during peak times.
  • Technology-Assisted Care: Explore the use of technology, such as telemonitoring or automated systems, to assist nurses with tasks and improve efficiency.
  • Incentive Programs: Offer incentives to nurses who work overtime or take on additional shifts to address staffing shortages.

Background Information:

Nurse staffing shortages have become a significant issue in healthcare organizations worldwide. This is due to a variety of factors, including increased patient demand, aging populations, and nursing shortages. Implementing a safe staffing ratio policy is a crucial step in addressing these challenges and ensuring quality patient care.

References:

  • Aiken, L. H., Sloane, D. M., Brunell, C., Cedarholm, T., Flemming, K., Higgins, C. P., ... & Lake, E. (2014). Hospital nurse staffing and patient mortality, nurse burnout, and job dissatisfaction. Journal of the American Medical Association, 312(9), 917-927.  
  • Hayes, L. C., Weaver, C., & O'Brien-Pallas, L. (2018). Nurse staffing, work environment, and burnout: A systematic review. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 84, 130-141.
  • Institute of Medicine. (2000). To err is human: Building a safer health system. Washington, DC: National Academies Press.

Sample Answer

       

Workplace Issue: Nurse Staffing Shortages

Policy Recommendation:

Implement a Safe Staffing Ratio Policy. Establish a minimum nurse-to-patient ratio for the Medical-Surgical Unit to ensure adequate patient care and reduce nurse burnout.

Supporting Evidence:

  • Studies have consistently shown a correlation between lower nurse-to-patient ratios and improved patient outcomes. (Aiken et al., 2014)