Assigning Floating RNs to Burn Patients: Best Practices for Nurse Managers

Introduction

Floating RNs are RNs who are assigned to work on a different unit than their usual unit. This can be due to a number of factors, such as staffing shortages, special events, or patient needs.

When assigning floating RNs to the burn unit, it is important to consider the following factors:

• The RN’s experience and skills: The nurse manager should consider the RN’s experience and skills when assigning them to a patient. For example, an RN with experience in wound care would be a good fit for a patient with extensive burns.
• The patient’s needs: The nurse manager should also consider the needs of the patient when making an assignment. For example, a patient with complex medical needs would require an RN with more experience.
• The RN’s comfort level: The nurse manager should also consider the RN’s comfort level when making an assignment. For example, an RN who is not comfortable caring for burn patients may not be a good fit for the burn unit.

Best Client to Assign to a Floating RN

The best client to assign to a floating RN is a client with stable vital signs and minimal medical needs. For example, a client who is recovering from a burn debridement surgery and is waiting to be discharged may be a good fit for a floating RN.

Tips for Nurse Managers

Here are some tips for nurse managers when assigning floating RNs to the burn unit:

• Provide orientation: The nurse manager should provide the floating RN with an orientation to the burn unit. This should include information on the unit’s policies and procedures, as well as the specific needs of burn patients.
• Assign the RN to a preceptor: The nurse manager should assign the floating RN to a preceptor who is experienced in caring for burn patients. The preceptor can provide guidance and support to the floating RN.
• Monitor the RN’s performance: The nurse manager should monitor the floating RN’s performance to ensure that they are able to provide safe and competent care to burn patients.

Conclusion

When assigning floating RNs to the burn unit, it is important to consider the RN’s experience and skills, the patient’s needs, and the RN’s comfort level. The best client to assign to a floating RN is a client with stable vital signs and minimal medical needs. Nurse managers should provide floating RNs with orientation, assign them to a preceptor, and monitor their performance.

Additional Information

In addition to the above, nurse managers should also educate floating RNs on the unique challenges of caring for burn patients. Burn patients are at high risk for infection, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies. Floating RNs need to be aware of these risks and be able to assess and manage them.

Nurse managers should also encourage floating RNs to ask questions and seek clarification if they are unsure about any aspect of caring for burn patients.