A charge nurse is preparing staffing for the upcoming shift on a medical-surgical unit.Which factor would take priority in planning?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

High patient acuity is the most important factor to consider when planning staffing for a medical-surgical unit. Acuity refers to the severity of a patient’s illness or injury, and patients with high acuity require more resources and staff time to provide adequate care. It is crucial that nurses are not overwhelmed by high patient acuity and that patients receive safe and effective care. While productive time, adequate staffing mix, and average daily census are also important considerations, they are secondary to patient acuity.

A Charge Nurse Is Preparing Staffing for the Upcoming Shift