System restricts nurses' overtime.

Noting concern over patient safety and staff well-being, Emory Healthcare in Atlanta has instituted a new policy that restricts overtime hours for nurses, including those in the ED. Here are some of the ways in which the system ensures their nurses get adequate rest: Nurses who want to work overtime cannot be on duty more than 60 hours a week. A central staffing center has been established to cover shifts. A number of the nurses have ED experience. Steps have been taken to ensure that nurses can take their 30-minute lunches and 15-minute breaks.