Author Question: In evaluating weekend mortality rates, the head nurse on the cardiac unit is surprised to find that ... (Read 33 times)

piesebel · **on:** Jul 8, 2018

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.

Question 2

To maintain patient safety, studies suggest that scheduling should avoid:

a. Rotating shifts.
b. Weekends.
c. 8-hour shifts.
d. Mandatory overtime.

kardosa007 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 8, 2018

Answer to Question 1

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.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Rotating shifts and overtime past 12 hours (mandatory or not) are being shown to increase nurse error and jeopardize patient safety.