Managing the caseload: A qualitative action research study exploring how community children's nurses deliver services to children living with life-limiting, life-threatening, and chronic conditions

PURPOSE. The number of children living with life-limiting, life-threatening, and chronic conditions nursed at home/in the community is increasing. There is limited literature on how community children's nurses (CCNs) manage their caseloads. DESIGN AND METHODS. A qualitative-action research study used in-depth interviews. RESULTS. The study generated a number of insights about the sorts of phenomena that contribute to CCNs' perceptions of workload. Themes included strategy, being proactive, purposeful visit, and knowing families. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Using a workload tool may help CCNs manage caseloads. Further work in other areas is required to identify issues of cultural specificity. © 2008 Blackwell Publishing