The Impact of Nurse Staffing on Patient Mortality Rates: An Analysis of Healthcare Quality and Recommendations for Improvement

Abstract

Background: A review commissioned by the union found that under-staffing or over-staffing steady ratios of nurses can lead to mortalities in the hospitals. The more adequate staffing is available the better and quicker care a patient can receive; conversely, staff shortages are directly proportional to patients’ mortality and especially in critical care specialties. However, the problem of staff deficits and lack of financial resources continues to persist across most health organizations.

Aim: The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of nurse staffing on patient mortality and to identify suggestions on staffing so as to depress mortality and enhance health care quality.

Methods: Following the current literature and prior empirical research, a literature review was carried out to evaluate the existing link of nurse staffing and patient outcomes. Selected variables were nurse staffing mainly the ratios, nursing skill mix, and nursing experience, and staffing deficits in different hospital contexts.

Results: Data presented suggest that a decrease in the number of nurses means higher mortality among patients especially where the patients’ severity is high. Direct care staffing with better staff mix and higher percentage of registered nurse (RN) is associated with better patient outcome, reduced mortality and fewer complications. Lack of workforce amplifies time gaps in delivering care and improves likelihood of producing mistakes.

Conclusion: Can restructuring of nursing staff positively affect patient survival and healthcare quality on the whole? Correct staffing, better protection of quality and well qualified nurses, and implementing staffing models based on adequate data can lower mortality and improve care.