Eastcoastnative

Just curious TammyG -- what is your average caseload?

Just wondering if there are Case Managers out there who do their own admissions? I work for a fairly large organization on the east coast and the Case Managers are averaging 13 to 15 patients and now the Case Managers may be having to do their own admissions. A float RN would do the initial admit -- get appropriate forms signed and order equipment. The Case Manager would make the 2nd admit visit and enter all the meds and do the assessment. They want the Case Managers to block out time on their schedules to make time for admits (2 to 2.5 hours). Case Managers are already working 10 to 12 hour days 5 days a week and do our own recert visits. Last week I worked a 60 hour week (supposed to be 40) which is not unusual. It is very difficult to "block out" time on our schedules because as you know your schedule is often not predictable -- a patient may be transitioning to EOL requiring more visits, a family member calls with an urgent need, etc. As much as I love being a Hospice nurse (I have been an RN 15 plus years and used to work in a hospital before becoming a Hospice RN 5 years ago), this will put me over the edge and I think I will have to start looking for a job elsewhere. Other nurses are saying the same. Would like to hear from others how they are doing their admits and if Case Managers are expected to do their own admits (or the bulk of the admit)? Does this plan sound reasonable to you with a 13 to 15 patient caseload (many who are high acuity)? Thanks for your input.