Maximizing Mobilization of Resources for Unplanned Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Staffing Deficiencies in a Large Midwest Multi-Hospital Trauma Center

• Published in: AANA journal Vol. 90; no. 2; p. 105
• Main Authors: Turkelson, Carman, Campbell, Denise, Reilly, Colleen, Novak, Jason
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-04-2022
• Subjects: Hospitals; Humans; Multiple Trauma; Nurse Anesthetists; Trauma Centers; Workforce; CRNA short message system; anesthesiology; Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist; CRNA disaster calling system; Acute staffing deficiencies; staff recall systems
• ISSN: 2162-5239

Acute staffing deficiencies pose a challenge for hospitals because shortages can negatively impact patient safety. The purpose of this study was to examine the most effective staff recall system (SRS) for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) during times of acute staffing deficiencies, whether from unforeseen emergencies or mass call outs. A preposttest design was used to explore the efficacy of the hospital's current CRNA SRS compared to a newly developed short message system (SMS) Acute Staffing Deficiency Recall Plan. Two 60-minute simulation drills were conducted to test the two systems with a convenience sample of 317 CRNAs. Data were gathered related to CRNAs: contacted, availability, and length of time to contact. Surveys were utilized pre/ post to evaluate knowledge, confidence, and selfefficacy regarding the recall systems. During the first simulation drill, 26% of CRNAs were contacted and 19% confirmed availability within 60 minutes using the standard CRNA SRS. During the second simulation, 86% of the CRNAs were contacted and 38% confirmed availability using the SMS messaging system within 60 minutes (P < .00001 and P < .0001 respectively). The SMS messaging improved CRNA contact by 60% and availability improved by 19% over the standard SRS.