Time management remains one of the most challenging skills for both new and experienced nurses. In fast-paced clinical environments, competing priorities, frequent interruptions, and high patient acuity can quickly lead to disorganization and missed care opportunities. However, with intentional strategies, nurses can improve efficiency, reduce stress, and ultimately enhance patient safety (Leis & Anderson, 2020; Nayak, 2018).

One of the most underutilized tools in modern nursing practice is the electronic health record (EHR). When used strategically, features such as watchlists, alerts, and personalized dashboards can significantly streamline workflow. Customizing patient lists to display critical labs, medication times, and new provider orders allows nurses to identify priorities in real time rather than reacting after delays occur. Additionally, the use of common pre-built phrases—when appropriately individualized—can reduce charting time while maintaining accuracy (American Nurses Association Enterprise [ANA], 2023).

Equally important is beginning each shift with a structured plan. Spending even 5–10 minutes reviewing patient assignments, identifying the highest acuity patient, and noting time-sensitive tasks can prevent hours of inefficiency later. Prioritization should follow a clear framework: unstable patients first, time-sensitive interventions next, and routine care last. Task clustering, completing multiple activities in a single patient interaction, further reduces unnecessary interruptions and improves overall workflow (Pagana, 1994; Zhang et al., 2020).

Timeliness also plays a critical role in successful time management. Arriving early allows nurses to participate fully in handoff communication, review patient information, and mentally prepare for the shift. Missing key details during report due to late arrival can lead to delayed interventions, overlooked orders, and increased stress throughout the day. In this way, effective time management begins before the shift even starts and contributes directly to continuity of care and patient safety (ANA, 2023).

Standardized communication tools such as SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) are another essential component of efficiency. SBAR helps nurses organize information clearly and concisely, reducing communication delays with providers and improving clinical decision-making. By limiting unnecessary back-and-forth exchanges, this structured framework supports both patient safety and improved time management (Leis & Anderson, 2020).

Proactive hourly rounding is another strategy that saves time in the long run. Addressing the “4 Ps”—pain, potty, position, and possessions—can significantly reduce call light usage, prevent patient harm, and improve satisfaction. Although rounding may initially seem time-consuming, evidence suggests it decreases interruptions and improves workflow efficiency over time (Bassi et al., 2025).

Delegation is equally critical. Nurses who attempt to manage all aspects of patient care independently often become overwhelmed and inefficient. Effectively utilizing support staff for appropriate tasks such as vital signs, ambulation, and hygiene allows nurses to focus on higher-level clinical responsibilities while maintaining team efficiency and patient-centered care (Nayak, 2018). However, it is equally important to foster a respectful, collaborative relationship with support staff. Nurses who occasionally assist with these tasks demonstrate teamwork, build trust, and contribute to a stronger, more supportive care environment.

Finally, documentation habits greatly influence workflow. Charting in real time—or in small, frequent intervals—improves accuracy, reduces end-of-shift backlog, and minimizes overtime. This “little and often” approach enhances both efficiency and legal accuracy in clinical documentation (Zhang et al., 2020).

In today’s complex healthcare environment, time management is not merely a productivity skill—it is a patient safety priority. By leveraging EHR tools, planning intentionally, communicating effectively, and working collaboratively, nurses can shift from reactive to proactive practice. Small, consistent changes in daily workflow can lead to meaningful improvements in both nurse well-being and patient outcomes.

Danielle Chaplin, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Florida College of Nursing with 16 years of nursing experience across diverse clinical settings, including ICU nursing experience. She is currently teaching in the undergraduate and graduate nursing programs while maintaining clinical practice as a family nurse practitioner.

References

American Nurses Association Enterprise. (2023, May 1). Time management tips for nurses. NursingWorld. https://www.nursingworld.org/content-hub/resources/workplace/time-management-tips-for-nurses/

Bassi, E., Jones, T. L., Chiappinotto, S., Tartaglini, D., Molin, A. D., & Palese, A. (2025). Educating nurses on prioritization: Insights from a mixed-methods study on unfinished nursing care. BMC Nursing, 24(1), 759. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-025-03345-w

Leis, S. J., & Anderson, A. (2020). Time management strategies for new nurses. American Journal of Nursing, 120(12), 63–66. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NAJ.0000724260.01363.a3

Nayak, S. G. (2018). Time management in nursing—Hour of need. International Journal of Caring Sciences, 11(3), 1997–2000.

Pagana, K. D. (1994). Teaching students time management strategies. Journal of Nursing Education, 33(8), 381–383. https://doi.org/10.3928/0148-4834-19941001-14

Zhang, F., Liu, J., An, M., & Gu, H. (2020). The effect of time management training on time management and anxiety among nursing undergraduates. Psychology, Health & Medicine, 26(9), 1073–1078. https://doi.org/10.1080/13548506.2020.1778751