Losing the moment: understanding interruptions to nurses' work

J Nurs Adm. 2010 Apr;40(4):169-76. doi: 10.1097/NNA.0b013e3181d41162.

Abstract

Interruptions in the nursing work environment can have significant, detrimental effects on patient safety. This mixed-method study used work observation and focus groups to explore interruptions in nursing work. A large number of interruptions were reported. Causes of interruptions are analyzed, and systems processes for reducing these in the future are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Efficiency, Organizational / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Internal-External Control
  • Interprofessional Relations*
  • Medication Errors / prevention & control
  • Nursing Administration Research
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / organization & administration*
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / psychology
  • Ontario / epidemiology
  • Personnel Staffing and Scheduling / organization & administration
  • Time Management / organization & administration*
  • Time Management / psychology
  • Total Quality Management / organization & administration
  • Workload / psychology
  • Workplace / organization & administration