What are the responsibilities and job description for the RN MILFORD position at DELAWARE HOSPICE INC?
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Based on our current census of 110 patients, and a census which can go up to 120 at times, the RN Case Manager can average a caseload of 15-18 patients per nurse. Additionally, the Milford office continues to rely on three contract nurses. Replacing this position is essential to maintain safe staffing levels, ensure quality patient care, and reduce costly contract labor. Failure to fill this role will increase caseloads, elevate compliance risks, and negatively impact staff retention and patient outcomes.
Current census/ Current census of Milford Office is 110 patients with upwards of 120 at times. Patients require stable staffing to maintain safe care delivery.
Caseload pressure*/ Our RN’s average caseload of 15-18 patients per nurse is already at the upper limit of safe practice in a large county such as Sussex; losing a nurse increases ratios which do not meet safe practice standards.
Contract Nurses/ Office is currently using 3 contract nurses, which indicates the ongoing staffing gaps and unsustainable workload distribution. The utilization of these nurses does not provide consistent patient care and decreases patient satisfaction. Additionally, contract nurses cost significantly more than a full time replacement; filling the vacancy reduces labor costs.
Quality and safety risks/ Higher caseloads increase risk of delays, errors, and missed care, impacting patient outcomes and regulatory compliance. Documentation compliance has been a significant issue with staff due to large caseloads, significant travel which leads to not having the ability to document timely without working overtime on a daily basis.
Staff retention and morale/ Continued understaffing contributes to burnout, turnover, and increased unplanned PTO; replacing this position stabilizes the already strained team as we already are currently recruiting for 3 case manager positions.
Operational continuity/ Maintaining adequate staffing ensures consistent coverage, workflow efficiency, and supports office growth.