The impact of seven-day working for patients and staff in an acute physical older adults unit: A service evaluation

Abstract

Statement of context

The occupational therapy service within an acute unit for complex older patients began operating over seven days, in response to the government strategy for the National Health Service to improve patient outcomes.

Critical reflection on practice

This evaluation shares findings on patient outcomes in the acute unit and a qualitative review of staff perspectives of the changes. There was an increase in both patient contact and the number of patients assessed by occupational therapists within 24 hours of admission. Although length of stay decreased by an average of 2.35 days, this cannot solely be attributed to the change in occupational therapy service. Occupational therapists and members of the multidisciplinary team felt that seven-day working is beneficial to patients; however, occupational therapists noted an impact on their work–life balance.

Implications for practice

The evaluation demonstrates the positive impact that seven-day working can have on patient outcomes and the importance that it extends to other members of the multidisciplinary team to be fully effective. The impact on job satisfaction for occupational therapists should be taken into consideration when planning seven-day services.