The development of a workload measurement resource for community health nurses within the Central Regional Integrated Health Authority of Newfoundland and Labrador

Dicks, Brenda (2016) The development of a workload measurement resource for community health nurses within the Central Regional Integrated Health Authority of Newfoundland and Labrador. Practicum Report. Memorial University of Newfoundland. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Background: Over the past decade, the roles of Community Health Nurses (CHNs) have changed significantly. Patients who are discharged from hospitals and referred to CHNs have more complications and it is important to determine ways to examine the means by which the CHN can meet the needs of these clients. CHNs have requested a review to determine if staffing levels reflect the quantity and complexity of the client’s they are responsible for. Currently a workload measurement tool does not exist in the Central Regional Integrated Health Authority (CRIHA) of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). Therefore, it was determined that a need for the development a workload measurement tool to use in community health in the CRIHA of NL was necessary. Purpose: The purpose of this practicum project was to develop a workload measurement tool to help better understand the caseloads of CHNs within the CRIHA of NL. Methods: Two methods were used; a literature review and consultations with key stakeholders. The framework used to guide this practicum project was the Community Health Nurses of Canada (CHNC) Professional Practice Model and Standards of Practice. In addition, a description of how the advanced practice nursing (APN) competencies were demonstrated by the practicum student is provided. Results: Several workload measurement tools were identified in the literature. The Client Audit Community Care Workload Measurement Tool (CACCWM) previously developed by Cawthorne and Rybak (2008) in Stoney Plains Alberta was adapted to demonstrate the workload of CHNs in CRIHA of NL. Additionally, based on consultations with CHNs and the literature review an extra duties sheet was developed as part of the workload measurement tool. Conclusion: With the introduction and use of the workload measurement tool for CHNs in CRIHA, opportunities to improve staffing levels may be identified to reflect the quantity and complexity of clients on the CHNs caseload. The four APN competencies were demonstrated throughout this practicum project.

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