Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
BACKGROUND: National Health Service reforms and government directives have placed primary care in the forefront of health care provision. Robust information is needed to inform and direct the district nursing response to these initiatives. AIM: To gain a detailed understanding of the district nursing service in the West Hertfordshire area, determine capacity for development and formulate plans for the 21st century. METHODS: Action research was the supporting methodology. A project group of working professionals led the study, identifying several areas for development, of which two are discussed: workload measurement and caseload profiling. KEY FINDINGS: An understaffed service with unpredictable workload which mitigates against proactive working. The inappropriate use of staff skills prevents efficient, cost-effective care. CONCLUSIONS: Robust caseload management with strict referral and discharge criteria and prioritization of visits offers the possibility of more effective time management. Skill mix review could enable more appropriate use of specialist skills.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Thomas et al. (2006) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 10 related papers. Consider them for comparative context: