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Describe the issue of use of contract employees (i.e., registry and travel nurses). Provide data to support how this issue impacts the quality of care in the setting in which it occurs.
Using research evidence for support, present one possible solution that could be implemented to address the issue. In your discussion, be sure to include financial considerations as they relate to implementation of the solution.
Describe a leadership style that would best address the issue.
Discuss how this leadership style compares to your personal leadership style.
Compare two different leadership theories that could be applied to resolution of the issue. Explain how each theory would be effective in addressing the issue.
Discuss the nurse’s role within an interdisciplinary team in promoting patient quality and safety while fostering professionalism to address this issue.
Full Answer Section
The Issue of Use of Contract Employees: Impact on Quality of Care
Introduction
The use of contract employees, such as registry and travel nurses, has become increasingly prevalent in healthcare settings. While contract employees can provide flexibility and fill staffing gaps, there are concerns regarding the impact on the quality of care. This essay will explore the issue of using contract employees, provide data to support its impact on quality of care, propose a possible solution, describe an appropriate leadership style, compare two leadership theories, and discuss the nurse’s role within an interdisciplinary team to address this issue.
Impact on Quality of Care
The use of contract employees can have negative implications for the quality of care provided. Research has shown that contract nurses may have limited familiarity with the specific unit’s policies, procedures, and workflows, leading to an increased risk of errors and compromised patient safety (McHugh et al., 2013). A study conducted by Needleman et al. (2019) found that higher levels of contract nurse staffing were associated with lower quality ratings and increased patient mortality rates. Contract employees may also experience challenges in building effective relationships with patients and their families due to their temporary nature of employment.
Proposed Solution: Comprehensive Onboarding and Support Programs
One possible solution to address the issues associated with using contract employees is the implementation of comprehensive onboarding and support programs. These programs would provide contract employees with the necessary training, orientation, and mentoring to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills specific to the unit they are assigned to. By investing in comprehensive onboarding and support programs, healthcare organizations can improve the integration and performance of contract employees, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided.
Financial Considerations
Implementing comprehensive onboarding and support programs for contract employees involves financial considerations. There will be costs associated with developing and delivering training programs, providing mentorship, and allocating resources for ongoing support. However, investing in these programs can have long-term financial benefits. Improved integration and performance of contract employees can lead to reduced errors, improved patient outcomes, and increased patient satisfaction. Additionally, by retaining experienced contract employees, healthcare organizations can reduce recruitment and orientation costs associated with frequent turnover.
Appropriate Leadership Style: Situational Leadership
A situational leadership style would be best suited to address the issue of using contract employees. Situational leaders adapt their leadership style based on the readiness and development level of their followers. In this context, situational leaders would assess the capabilities and experience level of contract employees and provide the appropriate level of direction and support. By recognizing the unique needs of contract employees and providing tailored guidance, situational leaders can enhance their performance and facilitate their integration into the healthcare team.
Comparison of Leadership Theories
Two leadership theories that could be applied to address the issue of using contract employees are transformational leadership and transactional leadership. Transformational leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating followers to achieve exceptional performance by creating a shared vision and empowering them. Transactional leadership focuses on clarifying expectations, setting goals, and rewarding or punishing based on performance.
Both theories can be effective in addressing the issue. Transformational leadership can inspire contract employees by emphasizing the importance of their role in providing high-quality care and fostering a sense of commitment to the organization’s mission. Transactional leadership can provide structure and clear expectations for performance, ensuring that contract employees adhere to established guidelines and protocols.
Nurse’s Role within an Interdisciplinary Team
Within an interdisciplinary team, nurses play a critical role in promoting patient quality and safety while fostering professionalism. Nurses collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, pharmacists, and therapists, to ensure coordinated care delivery. In the context of using contract employees, nurses can contribute by actively participating in the onboarding and mentorship process. They can share their expertise, provide guidance, and ensure that contract employees are well-integrated into the team. Additionally, nurses can advocate for comprehensive onboarding and support programs to ensure that contract employees have the necessary resources to provide high-quality care.
Conclusion
The use of contract employees in healthcare settings presents challenges related to the quality of care provided. Implementing comprehensive onboarding and support programs can help address these challenges by equipping contract employees with the necessary knowledge and skills. Situational leadership is an appropriate leadership style to adapt to the unique needs of contract employees. Transformational leadership and transactional leadership theories can both be effective in inspiring contract employees and providing structure. Nurses play a crucial role within an interdisciplinary team by actively participating in the onboarding process and advocating for comprehensive support programs. By addressing the issue comprehensively, healthcare organizations can enhance the integration and performance of contract employees, ultimately improving the quality of care provided.
