PATIENT CLASSIFICATION AND NURSING STAFF DIMENSIONING IN A PEDIATRIC INPATIENT UNIT

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Implementation of the Patient Classification System

2. Dimensioning the nursing staff in a pediatric inpatient unit

3. Labor management tools

4. Workload measurement

ABSTRACT

Objective:

to describe the implementation of the Patient Classification System and the dimensioning of the nursing staff in a pediatric inpatient unit.

Method:

a descriptive, cross-sectional, and retrospective study, carried out at a university hospital in the Midwest of Brazil. After the implementation of the Pediatric Patient Classification System, we compiled data from the classifications of the level of care complexity (N=4,639) among patients (n=608) admitted from January to December 2019. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed, including proprietary methodology for staff sizing.

Results:

there was a prevalence of intermediate care patients. According to the staff dimensioning, there was a surplus (+10) of mid-level workers, and the projected number of nurses (six) was compatible with the available number.

Conclusion:

the strategic implementation/employment of the Patient Classification System was indispensable for the pediatric nursing staffing forecast, considering that the staffing surplus found should be appreciated with caution.

DESCRIPTORS:
Staffing Adjustment; Pediatric Nursing; Workload; Inpatient Care Units; Staff; Hospital.