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Nursing workload in neurological intensive care units: cross-sectional study
Alda Ferreira Queijo1, Renata Soares Martins, Rafaela Andolhe
1Hospital da Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, Rua Maestro Cardin, 769 Bela Vista, CEP 01323-900, São Paulo, Brazil. aldafq@usp.br
Intensive & Critical Care Nursing
|September 25, 2012
Summary
This study measured nursing workload in neurological intensive care units (neuro-ICUs) using the Nursing Activities Score (NAS). Findings help optimize nursing resource allocation for neuro-ICU patient care needs.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Nursing Science
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Nursing workload is a critical factor influencing patient care quality in healthcare settings.
- Accurate measurement of nursing workload in specialized units like neurological intensive care units (neuro-ICUs) is essential for effective resource management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the nursing workload experienced by staff in neuro-ICUs.
- To identify key factors independently associated with nursing workload within these specialized units.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, cross-sectional study design was employed.
- Data were collected from 100 consecutive patients admitted to two 11-bed neuro-ICUs over their first 24 hours.
- The Nursing Activities Score (NAS) was utilized to assess nursing workload, with data analyzed using descriptive, inferential, and multiple linear regression statistics.
Main Results:
- The study population comprised predominantly male patients (52.00%) with a mean age of 55.10 years.
- The average Nursing Activities Score (NAS) was 65.18% (SD=6.63%), indicating a substantial nursing workload.
- Patient mortality risk was estimated at 17.79% (SAPS II) and 16.30% (LODS).
Conclusions:
- The assessed nursing workload in neuro-ICUs provides crucial data for effective resource planning.
- Understanding nursing workload is vital for aligning staffing levels with the complex care requirements of neuro-ICU patients.
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