Nurse Staffing and Workload Drivers in Small Rural Hospitals: An imperative for Evidence

Authors

  • Diane E Twigg Edith Cowan University
  • Jennifer H Cramer Edith Cowan University
  • Judith D Pugh Edith Cowan University Murdoch University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14574/ojrnhc.v16i1.370

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore staffing issues and the workload drivers influencing nursing activities in designated small rural hospitals of Western Australia. A problem for small rural hospitals is an imbalance between nurse staffing resources and work activity.

Sample: A purposive sample of 17 nurse leaders employed at designated small rural hospitals in Western Australia.

Method: A qualitative research design was used. Data were collected by focus group and semi-structured interviews and review of Western Australian Country Health Service records. Thematic analysis was used to interpret data.

Findings: A minimum nurse staffing model is in use. Staff workload is generated from multiple activities involving 24-hour emergency services, inpatient care, and other duties associated with a lack of clinical and administrative services. These factors together impact on nursing staff resources and the skill mix required to ensure the safety and quality of patient care.

Conclusion:  Nurse staffing for small rural hospitals needs site-specific recording techniques for workload measurement, staff utilisation and patient outcomes. It is imperative that evidence guide nurse staffing decisions and that the workload driving nursing activity is reviewed. 

Keywords: rural health nursing; nursing staff; skill mix; workload; workload measurement; hospitals, rural; rural health services

DOI:  http://dx.doi.org/10.14574/ojrnhc.v16i1.370

Author Biographies

  • Diane E Twigg, Edith Cowan University

    School of Nursing and Midwifery

    Professor of Nursing
    Head of School

  • Jennifer H Cramer, Edith Cowan University

    School of Nursing and Midwifery

    Centre for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Services Research

    Senior Research Assistant

  • Judith D Pugh, Edith Cowan University Murdoch University

    School of Nursing and Midwifery

    Adjunct Senior Lecturer

    School of Health Professions 

    Senior Research Fellow

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Published

2016-02-13

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Articles