Jane, an experienced head nurse, is given the task of completing the s

QUESTION

Jane, an experienced head nurse, is given the task of completing the summer vacation schedule for the pediatric unit.

She is fully aware of the hospital’s restrictions on time off and the number of staff on vacation at any given time, as well as its issues regarding seniority. She weighs the options of allowing staff choice, such as it takes more time but gives employees options. However, if choice is allowed, this could cause arguments. Which of the following is the best alternative?

a. Ask for requests for vacation time in advance, and post the times.
b. Post the completed vacation schedule.
c. Post a tentative schedule, and request feedback.
d. Post a blank schedule, and ask staff members to fill in their times by a given date.

ANSWER:

ANS: D
This is based on a decision-making model that allows experience and knowledge to predict whether a decision will or will not work. The experience of the head nurse suggests that it is important to involve staff in decisions that affect them the most.