Can an increase in nurse to patient ratio cause a decrease in patient safety?

Abstract & background | research | Miami-Dade College.

Abstract:

This paper aims to examine the relationship between nurse-to-patient ratios and safety. The literature review was done in a systematic way, with a focus on the studies which explored the effect of staffing levels on patient outcomes. Results suggest that a higher nurse to patient ratio can be correlated with lower patient safety. These results highlight how important it is to have adequate staffing when it comes to patient safety. They also show the necessity of ongoing research on this topic in order for patients’ outcomes and care quality.

Background:

Nursing’s role in improving patient safety in the healthcare industry is well known. The ratio between nurses and patients, or the level of nurse staffing has been shown to be a factor in patient safety. Research has shown that high ratios of nurses to patients can negatively impact patient safety. This includes an increase in medication errors, infections, and falls. Many healthcare facilities struggle to maintain sufficient staffing. This paper will explore the relationship between nurse to patient ratios and patient safety, with the hypothesis that an increase in nurse to patient ratio is correlated with a decrease in patient’s safety.