Nurses’ Satisfaction Related to Implementing Patient Acuity Tool-Based Assignment

Abstract

Nurses’ assignment that based on patient acuity tool scores regulates the number of nurses on a shift according to the patients' needs, thus balancing nurses’ workload and enhancing nurses’ satisfaction with assignment. This study aimed at assessing nurses' satisfaction related to implementing of patient acuity tool-based assignment. Experimental posttest only design was used. This study was conducted in critical care units at the Menoufia University Hospitals in Shebin Elkom. Simple random sample of nurses was selected from the previous units that was divided equally into two groups: experimental group (n=89) and control group (n=89). Additionally, all first line managers of the same units were selected (n=33). Tools used for data collection included: (1): Nurses’ Satisfaction with the Methods of Assignment questionnaire (posttest only). (2): First line managers Opinion Sheet to measure their opinion regarding implementation of the acuity tool-based nurses’ assignment. Results of the current study revealed that the majority of nurses in the experimental group were satisfied with method of assignment that based on acuity scores after implementation of the program. Also, there was no statistically significant difference between nurses’ satisfaction in the experimental group and their personal data except regarding their educational level and years of experience that was highly statistical. In conclusion, implementation of Kidd et al., new patient acuity tool was effective in improving nurses’ satisfaction with assignment. Moreover, the highest percentage of first line managers agreed on implementation of the patient acuity- tool based assignment. Continuous incorporation of the patient acuity tool in nurses’ assignment and generalization in other nursing units is a significant implication to promote proper distribution of nursing shift assignments and better nurses’ satisfaction.