Reduction in work hours during a period of reduced patient census.

Implementation of and experience with a temporary reduction in hours worked at a large teaching hospital in California are described. During a period of reduced patient census, the hospital administration ordered a 20% reduction in the number of hours worked by employees in all departments for three months. Employees were required to take one extra day off per week as paid vacation or holiday time or as leave without pay. During this period, pharmacy staff members averaged seven extra days off. Pharmacy personnel were unable to complete some routine responsibilities, and their involvement in interdisciplinary patient rounds and inservice education decreased. The temporary cutback in work hours allowed the work force to be preserved. Departmental managers should keep staff members informed about potential changes in staffing patterns that may be required for cost containment.