Float Nurses’ Association with Nurse Sensitive Indicators: A Cross-Sectional Study

Floating is a common nurse staffing strategy, yet its effects on nurse-sensitive indicators (NSIs) remain largely unexplored. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of two distinct forms of floating: nurses from dedicated float pools and unit-based nurses temporarily assigned to other units. Using a cross-sectional, secondary data analysis methodology, the study focused on float nurses’ relationships with four NSIs: Falls, Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries (HAPI), Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI), and Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTI). Data was collected from 25 critical care and medical/surgical units across three hospitals from April 2023 to April 2024, utilizing the National Database for Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI) and existing nurse staffing records. A logistic regression analysis revealed two key findings: float pool nurses were associated with a decreased risk of HAPI (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.92-0.99) and CLABSI (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.88-0.99). In contrast, increased frequency of unit-based floating correlated with a higher risk of HAPI. While float pool nurses were not associated with elevated NSI risks, frequent floating of unit-based nurses may negatively impact patient outcomes. Recommendations include standardized tracking of floating practices and future longitudinal studies to refine staffing policies.

Name thesis:degree_name

PhD in Nursing (Doctoral)

Grantor

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Stephens, Catherine

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Verklan, M. Terese (mtverkla@utmb.edu)

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/2152.3/12680

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:utmb-ir.tdl.org:2152.3/12680