Evidence-based human resource management : a study of nurse leaders' resource allocation

• Aims The aims were to illustrate how the RAFAELA system can be used to facilitate evidence-based human resource management.Background The theoretical framework of the RAFAELA system is based on a holistic view of humankind and a view of leadership founded on human resource management.Methods Nine wards from three central hospitals in Finland participated in the study. The data, stemming from 2006–2007, were taken from the critical indicators (ward-related and nursing intensity information) for national benchmarking used in the RAFAELA system. The data were analysed descriptively.Results The daily nursing resources per classified patient ratio is a more specific method of measurement than the nurse-to-patient ratio. For four wards, the nursing intensity per nurse surpassed the optimal level 34% to 62.2% of days. Resource allocation was clearly improved in that a better balance between patients' care needs and available nursing resources was maintained.Conclusions The RAFAELA system provides a rational, systematic and objective foundation for evidence-based human resource management.Implications for nursing management Data from a systematic use of the RAFAELA system offer objective facts and motives for evidence-based decision making in human resource management, and will therefore enhance the nurse leaders' evidence and scientific based way of working.

Nyckelord

health workforce planning

human resource management

nursing intensity

patient classification

personnel staffing and scheduling

work load

Medical sciences

Medicin

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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