title: Said another way. Our obligation to float.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Floating is one method that can help alleviate the burden and consequences of the nursing shortage.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The devastating effects that occur as a result of the nursing shortage are discussed. As a result, floating is argued as a viable solution. The practice of floating is explored from an ethical approach.
  
  
  METHODS
  Professional literature, electronic resources, nursing textbooks, from statements provided from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, Six Sigma, legal cases, and personal experience.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Although many nurses oppose the practice of floating, it remains not only necessary, but it is also our obligation. It is acknowledged that floating has its opposition, but the arguments posed are not justifiable when they are weighed against the consequences of not floating.
authors: Texas Woman's University, Denton, Texas, USA. christine@elp.rr.com
authors: Christine
authors: C
authors: Kane-Urrabazo