Daily care can be organized in several ways:
The team leader approach. Registered practitioner leads a team of professionals who provide all major types of services. Patient satisfaction increases as the contact with the staff improve. However, a leader’s characteristics can affect group performance adversely. This approach can be used in those facilities that are rarely overcrowded.
The named nurse approach. A nurse is responsible for several particular patients. In this way, their relationships improve, and the quality of services enhances. However, long shifts may not appeal to nurses. This approach is beneficial for short episodes of care in surgery departments, for instance.
Total care or patient allocation. A practitioner takes care of designated patients. Holistic care is delivered, but it is not cost-effective. It is appropriate for intensive care units.
Task allocation. Labor is divided among professionals. Practitioners deal with those tasks that correspond to their skills. Patients are alienated, and nurses are demotivated. It can be used in settings with high patient turnover.
Case management. Practitioners deal with the ongoing care of those patients who come to visit them initially. The understanding of the case improves, but there is an absence of a second opinion. It is appropriate for the treatment of mental illnesses and cancer.
Primary nursing. Nurses provide care 24/7, which ensures patient safety. It is resource-consuming and is rarely used in acute care settings.
Managed care. Multi-disciplinary teams are involved. Provided care is aligned with the medical diagnosis. Information sharing is critical, and care is specific. It is appropriate for settings with numerous departments.
Key working. Professionals are responsible for a particular group of people, which minimalizes challenges faced by clients. It requires considering both healthcare and social needs. It is used when treating mentally ill patients or those with learning disabilities.
Triangle. The urgency of the issue is identified initially. Care may not be provided initially, but attention is paid to the most critical cases. It is appropriate in emergency care settings.