Authors

  1. Xue, Ying DNSc, RN
  2. Chappel, Andre R. PhD
  3. Freund, Deborah A. PhD
  4. Aiken, Linda H. PhD, FAAN
  5. Noyes, Katia PhD, MPH

Abstract

Use of agency-employed supplemental nurses on nursing personnel costs was examined in 19 adult patient care units in a large academic medical center. Results indicated that the modest use of supplemental nurses was cost-efficient with regard to overall nursing personnel costs, but heavy reliance on supplemental nurses to meet staffing needs was not cost-efficient. In addition, there was no statistical difference in hourly personnel cost between the use of supplemental nurses and overtime worked by permanent nurses.