In evaluating weekend mortality rates, the head nurse on the cardiac u

QUESTION

In evaluating weekend mortality rates, the head nurse on the cardiac unit is surprised to find that they are higher than on weekdays. In exploring the reasons for this apparent anomaly, the head nurse focuses on:

a. Availability of diagnostic personnel.
b. Availability of physicians.
c. Communication with on-call providers.
d. Acuity level of patients.

ANSWER:

ANS: C
Studies to date of off-peak hours (weekends and nights) are limited, but those that have been done indicate increased mortality during weekends and nights, when staff work with fewer and often less experienced staff and when there may be strained communication among on-call healthcare providers.