Question

The increased use of agency nurses has been proposed by a health-care organization's personnel department. What implications of this practice should be considered?

1) Increased costs
2) Increased need for overtime
3) Liability from the use of unlicensed nurses
4) Consequences of unfamiliarity with the unit
5) Decreased continuity of client care

Answer 1

The implications of increased use of agency nurses include increased costs, need for overtime, liability risks, unfamiliarity with the unit, and decreased continuity of care.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering the increased use of agency nurses, several implications should be taken into account:

1. Increased costs: Hiring agency nurses can be more expensive than hiring permanent staff, as agencies often charge higher rates.
2. Increased need for overtime: If agency nurses are used to fill staffing gaps, there may be an increased need for overtime among existing staff members.
3. Liability from the use of unlicensed nurses: It's important to ensure that all agency nurses are properly licensed and qualified, to avoid potential liability for the organization.
4. Consequences of unfamiliarity with the unit: Agency nurses may not be familiar with the specific unit or its routines, which can impact efficiency and continuity of care.
5. Decreased continuity of client care: The use of different agency nurses on a rotating basis may result in decreased continuity of care for patients.