You have just been hired as a unit manager for a 15-bed pediatric unit. One of your first priorities is to create a staffing chart. However, first you will need to calculate your FTEEs and salary costs. After analyzing the unit budget report, you find that the average daily census during the last fiscal year was 12.5 patients. You also find that the acuity during this time is as follows:
Acuity 1: 3 patients
Acuity 2: 7 patients
Acuity 3: 2.5 patients
You check the staffing manual to find the following nurse hours per patient day (NHPPD):
Acuity 1: 10 NHPPD
Acuity 2: 16 NHPPD
Acuity 3: 20 NHPPD
Part I: Calculate FTEEs
Using the information provided in the scenario, the acuity levels, and the NHPPD requirements, first calculate the number of FTEEs needed to staff the unit 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In your calculation, remember to factor in a 1.2 replacement factor for days off and vacation and a 0.1 replacement factor for nonproductive time. Record your calculations in the Staffing Chart Template.
Part II: Calculate Salary Costs
Based on the FTEEs you calculated in Part I, determine the proportion of registered nurses (RNs) to nursing assistants (NAs) you will need. Then, calculate the salary cost for each person by using the hourly wage multiplied by 2,080 (number of hours worked per year), then add 30% to cover benefits. Use the following to make your calculations:
- RN salary: $87,880 per year (average of $32.50 per hour plus 30% for benefits = $42.25 per hour)
- NA salary: $41,912 per year (average of $15.50 per hour plus 30% for benefits = $20.15 per hour)
Total the salary costs to determine your initial budget.
This is all of the information that was given in the problem. What information is needed in addition to this?
