A disaggregation model of a flexible nurse scheduling support system.

A nurse scheduling support system is developed in which the demand profile and nurses' preferences are input to an expert-like capability designed to formulate linear and/or goal programming representations of the problem. Solutions of the alternative optimization models of this decision support system are then evaluated. An assignment model for disaggregating the optimum work patterns of individual nurses based on their desires and compatibilities is discussed in detail. A brief overview of one of the scheduling models and its extension is also presented along with discussion of the various uses of the assignment model.