Working time structure of pediatric nurses in hospital wards representing different referential levels

Background: Working time is a non-renewable and important element in the management of an organization. The implementation of changes in the structure of working time may be facilitated by the insight into activities undertaken by employees during work. Such an approach plays an important role since the effective use of time improves the quality of care, prevents timewasting and optimizes the use of the full potential of employees, including nurses. The objective of the study was to determine the structure of working time of pediatric nurses in hospital wards of 2 referential levels. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in 2 wards (2nd and 3rd levels of reference) in the Regional Specialist Children’s Hospital in Olsztyn. The research method involved the measurement of working time, as well as continuous and snap-shot observation techniques. Standardized research instruments were used in the study; 8 continuous observations and 2333 snap-shot observations were carried out. Results: In the structure of working time of pediatric nurses indirect nursing-related activities predominated (52.2%). Direct nursing made 28.7% of the working time. The nurses devoted the smallest amount of time to coordination and organization – 8%. The percentage of time associated with non-duty activities and breaks at work was 11.1%. In direct nursing activities associated with diagnosing (9%) and treatment (11.7%) prevailed. In indirect nursing activities pertaining to documentation of activities related to direct nursing made 24.6%. Conclusions: Pediatric nurses devote insufficient amount of time to direct nursing. Activities associated with documentation of activities related to direct nursing, preparation for direct nursing, as well as treatment and diagnosing predominate in the working time structure of nurses. Med Pr 2017;68(1):95–10