Search

In this study, the differences in patient assignments between float pool nurses versus scheduled unit staff nurses were examined. Although there was a tendency for float pool nurses to receive more difficult patient assignments, this was not statistically significant (at alpha=0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this exploratory survey study was to determine the perspectives of patients and family visitors about the reasons for and nature of patient- and family-initiated call lights, call light use, and response time to call lights. Fifty-three percent of participants (n=63) perceived most of their call lights mattered to their safety. Participants believed answering call lights should be a priority among patient care tasks as a critical aspect of nursing staff roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights a study which used a within-unit-over-time methodology to estimate the effects of unit-level nurse staffing on unplanned readmissions and emergency department (ED) visits within 30 days post-discharge. It emphasizes that nurse managers, directors, and administrators should understand the impact of registered nurse (RN) staffing on patient outcomes. Also discussed is a proposal by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to reduce readmission/ED visits.