Occupancy data: unravelling the mystery

TL;DRAbstract

Objective: The main purpose of this study was to clarify the method used to calculate bed occupancy rates. Design: Qualitative, using semi‑structured face‑to‑face interviews, telephone interviews and email correspondence with internal and external stakeholders, as well as analysis of key documents. Setting: A tertiary hospital in Queensland, Australia. Participants: Nursing and administrative staff from 34 clinical areas, nurse managers and finance officers. Main outcome measure: Identification of the method used to calculate bed occupancy. Results: A number of issues potentially impact on the accuracy of occupancy data including timeliness of data entry, knowledge about what should be entered and skill deficits. There was also considerable confusion and misinformation about how occupancy data is calculated, used and reported. Conclusion: Occupancy data integrity may be compromised by timeliness and accuracy of data entry and by methods used for calculation. Until these problems are re

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