Question

Describe the division of labor in contemporary health care. This may include hospitals and other parts of the institution. What problems may arise when task divisions and lines of authority are unclear? Why is this lack of clarity often necessary? Remember that there is specific terminology to use in discussing these issues, particularly in the hospital setting.

Answer 1

DIVISION OF LABOR

Division of labor refers to dividing the work among the employees and employers, workers on the basis of their qualifications and capabilities. The division of labor is described through roles, job description , nursing activities or duties. In hospital setting, the different activities are divided among nurses, physician and other team members which leads to efficient performance, cooperation, culture of mutual respect and recognition , open communication.

Problems -

In hospital staff members sometimes feel Increase in workload, if More work is assigned to them , then it would be difficult for them to take certain tasks if proper authority and division is not assigned to them.

2. There may be increase in conflicts among staff members regarding the completion of tasks, lack of accountability, reduces quality of health care facilities, may bring negative results such as patient lack of confidence in hospital.

3. If authority and division is not clear then the nurse or physician may feel pressure to increase productivity, report high administrative workload.and this reduces the efficiency of management like nurses may not know what authority they have regarding prescription and medicines prescribed by physician.

To overcome these problems the hospitals must take appropriate measures for division and authority ,as this will bring sense of belongingness , trust , autonomy of taking decision, awareness of provider of Education.

Sometimes these lack of clarity is also necessary to Improve the  coordination, increase in specialisation of nurses as they are able to work efficiently and are not confined to their work.

Hospital are Organization which should consider these principles of division of labor and clear authority to Improve their quality odlf health care facilities.