Cross-sectional study examines float nurses' effects on quality indicators, suggesting distinct influences.
Background: Floating nurses are an essential staffing strategy to maintain coverage across hospital units, yet evidence on their impact on quality and safety outcomes remains limited. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between distinct types of float nurses and nurse-sensitive indicators. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted across 25 inpatient units in 3 hospitals between April 2023 and April 2024. Logistic regression was used to examine associations between float pool and floated unit nurses and rates of falls, pressure injuries, and health care-associated infections. Results: Float pool nurses were associated with a reduced risk of pressure injuries and central line–associated bloodstream infections. No significant associations were observed for floated unit nurses. Conclusions: Float pool nurses and floated unit nurses have distinct associations with nurse-sensitive indicators and should be evaluated separately.
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Stephens et al. (2026) studied this question.
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