What considerations guide float pool assignments during a surge?

• A. Ignore patient acuity.
• B. Competency, scope of practice, patient acuity, supervision, and maintaining patient safety.
• C. Random assignment regardless of skills.
• D. Only the availability of float staff.

Answer: (B)

In surge, float pool assignments must align what patients need with what staff can safely do. This means evaluating patient acuity so sicker or more complex patients are matched with clinicians who have the appropriate skills and level of monitoring. It also requires confirming competency and scope of practice, ensuring each caregiver is qualified to perform the required tasks and medications for that patient group. Supervision is important when staff are working in unfamiliar units or with high-acuity populations, providing guidance and a safety net. Above all, prioritizing patient safety guides every decision, aiming to prevent errors, adverse events, and safety lapses while maintaining appropriate staffing ratios.

Ignoring patient acuity risks unsafe care; random assignment disregards skills and limits; choosing only availability ignores patient needs and competencies.