Final answer:
The nurse manager should first consult with existing staff to understand their scheduling preferences and concerns before implementing changes. Addressing rotating shift problems requires systematic staff engagement, clear communication, and considerate scheduling practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse manager in a long-term care facility is having difficulty with staffing for weekend shifts and plans to implement changes to the scheduling procedure, the first action they should take is to consult with the existing staff to identify their preferences and concerns. Understanding staff preferences can help in creating a schedule that accommodates their needs and potentially improve staff satisfaction and retention. It is also essential to ensure that any modifications to the scheduling procedure consider government regulations that might affect the demand for different categories of healthcare workers.
Healthcare professionals like nurses often work rotating shifts, which can be problematic as it affects their personal lives, work-life balance, and can lead to job dissatisfaction and burnout. To deal with these potential problems, a systematic approach that includes staff consultation, clear communications, and mindful scheduling is necessary. Efforts to address these issues may contribute to creating a better work environment, enhancing the quality of care for residents, and ensuring compliance with governmental healthcare regulations.