A system for using supplemental staff

This article has outlined the development of a system for using temporary nurses. Steps in this process include reevaluation of department philosophy; formulation of criteria for temporary staffing; development of scheduling mechanisms and policies that reflect the criteria; and finally, the development of methods for evaluation. Our system uses scheduling components previously in existence at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center. We consider the computerized system an advantage for our purposes, but it was not essential. A written schedule could then be used to meet department needs. Defining goals and then determining methods is important, since several alternative methods might be possible to meet a goal. Our system emphasizes both continuity and accountability at the unit level. Because the unit leaders have close association with temporary staff, their input is vital. The unit leaders formally evaluate the temporary personnel and are accountable for making appropriate requests for temporary staff. The judgment of need is based on such factors as patient needs, budget allocation, and staff vacations. The system outlined was the necessary by-product of the interfacing of two staffing methods, permanent and temporary. Consistency is the key to resolving problems.