Development of A Nurse Scheduling Timetable in The Emergency Department Using Bat Algorithm

Abstract

Nurse scheduling in the emergency department (ED) is a complex optimisation problem that requires balancing nurse workload while adhering to operational constraints. This study applies the Bat Algorithm (BA), a metaheuristic optimisation technique, to generate efficient nurse schedules. The proposed approach aims to minimise deviations from workload constraints, reduce soft constraint violations, and ensure adequate rest periods while avoiding undesirable shift transitions. The BA was implemented in MATLAB and evaluated against traditional Goal Programming (GP) methods. Experimental results demonstrated its efficiency, with a computational time of 7.67 seconds. The BA outperformed GP by achieving lower deviations, indicating fewer unnecessary shifts and transitions that balance the workload for nurses while improving nurse satisfaction and operational efficiency. These findings highlight the potential of BA to enhance workforce management in healthcare settings and contribute to improved patient care.