Scheduling Models for an Inpatient Nursing Unit Assignment

Scheduling Models for an Inpatient Nursing Unit - Assignment Example Below is a recommendation on the unit’s scheduling model. A flexible scheduling model is recommended for the unit because of its suitability for the unit’s environmental factors and because of its advantages relative to cyclical scheduling that the unit applies currently. One of the characteristics of flexible scheduling is its ability to adjust to changing environmental factors that are expected of the unit. Possible change from agency hiring identifies potential delay in filling vacancies and therefore temporary staff shortage. In addition, change implementation such as the introduction of a new electronic nursing documentation system and associated need for training induces temporary burden on personnel. The same effect is expected from the expected leave of an employee and a flexible scheduling approach would ensure ability to meet extra needs at minimum cost and efficiently. Being used to a flexible system, employees will likely accept changes for accommodating extra needs that if a cyclical system, which fixed, was in place. A ssociated resistance with cyclical system that would require temporary hiring of personnel or hiring of additional personnel o cover temporary shortages solves the cost problem. I addition to the cost and effectiveness advantages, flexible scheduling ensures personnel innovation, motivation, satisfaction, and unity and ensures that personnel work within their capacities. These also ensure sufficient coverage, quality, and stability. The scheduling approach requires coordination among personnel, who share patient, for quality output. Cyclical scheduling is not suitable for the unit’s dynamic environment, even though it has such benefits as â€Å"even coverage, high stability, and lower cost† (Ozcan, 2009, n,.p.). Interchanging shift patterns is also recommended because of the flexibility advantages. Implementing the change from