To reduce reliance on overtime hours, an organization develops a strat

QUESTION

To reduce reliance on overtime hours, an organization develops a strategy for floating nurses during staff shortages. To maximize patient safety and reduce costs, the healthcare organization:

a. Develops a centralized pool of float nurses.
b. Assigns nurses from less busy units to ones with increased acuity levels.
c. Floats nurses only between units on which the nurses have been cross-trained.
d. Assigns float nurses to basic care only.

ANSWER:

ANS: A
A centralized pool usually includes experienced nurses who maintain a broad range of competencies. Other approaches are less satisfying for nurses, are less efficient, and may be less safe.