The Impact of Nurse-Patient Ratios on Clinical Outcomes: A Comprehensive Review of Evidence and Implications for Healthcare Delivery

Abstract

Background: The relationship between nurse-patient ratios and clinical outcomes has garnered significant attention, particularly in surgical and medical contexts. However, the implications for mental health nursing remain underexplored. This review aims to synthesize existing evidence on the impact of nurse skill mix and ratios in inpatient mental health settings.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on studies assessing the correlation between nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes in mental health environments. Searches were performed across multiple databases to identify observational studies that met predefined inclusion criteria.

Results: The review identified a limited number of studies directly linking nurse-patient ratios to clinical outcomes in mental health settings. While some evidence suggests that higher nurse staffing levels may reduce readmission rates, the overall quality of studies was inconsistent. Notably, methodological challenges, including the reliance on self-reported data and variations in defining adverse outcomes, were prevalent.

Conclusion: This review highlights a critical gap in the literature regarding the impact of nursing skill mix on patient outcomes in mental health settings. The findings underscore the need for rigorous research to establish clear correlations and guide staffing policies in psychiatric care.