Exploring the on-call system at AUBMC. Facilitator & barriers

Abstract

Background: An on-call scheduling system is used to ensure that the appropriate employees are available whenever needed. The aim is to create 24-hour staffing coverage in various hospital departments. When in need, RNs must be ready, 24/7, at any time. Purpose: To explore how nurses working at AUBMC are living under the current On call system, their experience, and preferences. Methodology: This project followed the qualitative descriptive design. Sixteen nurses working at AUBMC shared their experience under the current on-call system in three focus groups discussions. Focus groups were held between October 2022 and November 2022, during working hours at AUBMC. Data analysis was done through a qualitative descriptive method following Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis methodology. Results: Four themes emerged from the data. 1- Threat to Homeostasis (Internal and External); 2-The need to be fairly reimbursed; 3-A solution and a problem; 4-The shy dream. Conclusion: This project revealed a negative impact for using the on-call system as a long term solution for nurses’ shortage and staffing. Several recommendations were proposed according to the RNs requests and dreams such as standardization, a clear policy, remuneration in terms of fresh dollars and so on.