Analysis of Nurse Staffing and Patient Outcomes Using Comprehensive Nurse Staffing Characteristics in Acute Care Nursing Units

Abstract

Associations between comprehensive nurse staffing characteristics and patient falls and pressure ulcers were examined using negative binomial regression modeling with hospital-and time-fixed effects. A convenience sample was collected from 35 nursing units in 3 hospitals. Rates of patient falls and injury falls were found to be greater with higher temporary registered nurse staffing levels but decreased with greater levels of licensed practical nursing care hours per patient day. Pressure ulcers were not related to any staffing characteristics.