DefinePK

Research Objective

To assess if nurses working in in-patient wards at a public sector hospital in Peshawar were under workload stress.

Methodology

Descriptive observational research conducted in November 2020 at a public sector hospital in Peshawar. The Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN) tool, developed by the WHO, was used to determine nurse workload. Three tiers of committees (steering, technical, and expert) were established to ensure the successful implementation of the WISN methodology. Data were analyzed using the WISN software.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A["Conduct Descriptive Observational Research"] --> B["Apply WISN Tool"];
    B --> C["Establish Committees"];
    C --> D["Collect Service Statistics"];
    D --> E["Analyze Data using WISN Software"];
    E --> F["Determine Nurse Workload and Staffing Needs"];
    F --> G["Conclude on Workload Pressure"];                    

Discussion

The WISN approach is a valuable tool for assessing staffing needs based on workload. The study found a surplus of one nurse in the in-patient ward, suggesting that this nurse could be reassigned to an area with greater demand. The hospital management should assess workload pressures in other units and adjust staffing accordingly to optimize service delivery. While WISN is widely used, its findings cannot be generalized without considering factors like topography and demography.

Key Findings

Nurses in the in-patient unit worked an average of 1966 hours per year. Health service activities, support, and other activities accounted for 47.92%, 33.33%, and 18.75% of nurses' time, respectively. The WISN estimation indicated that 3 nurses were needed to manage the ward's workload, while 4 nurses were employed, resulting in one surplus nurse. The WISN ratio calculated was 1.33.

Conclusion

The study concluded that there was no workload pressure on nurses in the in-patient ward, and there was a surplus of one nurse. Appropriate health workforce management and planning, utilizing tools like WISN, can significantly impact the productivity and efficiency of the healthcare industry.

Fact Check

1. The study was conducted in November 2020. (Confirmed by text)
2. The WISN estimated that 3 nurses were needed for the ward's workload. (Confirmed by text)
3. The WISN ratio calculated was 1.33. (Confirmed by text)

Mind Map