Overview
I'm working on a science discussion question and need an explanation and answer to help me learn.
In your new job as a leader in a nursing department, you want to prepare yourself for any situation that may occur. You take time to review your relevant experiences and some of the laws that will affect your actions.
Staffing levels vary from work environment to work environment and depend on the type of nursing—from intensive care to long-term care. Discuss the following:
- Describe a situation when you were short-staffed.
- How did you handle the situation?
- What was the outcome?
- Reflecting on the outcome, how would you have handled this situation differently?
Some states mandate staffing levels; others do not. Discuss the following:
- What type of legislation exists in your state regarding nurse-to-patient staffing ratios?
- How does the legislation, or lack thereof, affect patient care?