The Effect of Nurse-Patient Ratios on Clinical Outcomes: An In-Depth Review of Evidence and Healthcare Implications

Abstract

Background: The connection between nurse-patient ratios and clinical outcomes has received considerable focus, particularly in surgical and medical settings. However, the implications for mental health nursing are less understood. This review seeks to synthesize existing evidence regarding the effects of nurse skill mix and staffing ratios in inpatient mental health environments.
Methods: A thorough literature review was conducted, focusing on studies that evaluate the relationship between nursing levels and patient outcomes in mental health settings. Multiple databases were searched to identify observational studies that met specific inclusion criteria.
Results: The review found a limited number of studies directly linking nurse-patient ratios to clinical outcomes in mental health settings. Some evidence suggests that higher nurse staffing levels may lead to reduced readmission rates, though the overall quality of the studies was inconsistent. Methodological challenges, including reliance on self-reported data and variations in the definition of adverse outcomes, were common.
Conclusion: This review reveals a significant gap in the literature concerning the impact of nursing skill mix on patient outcomes in mental health settings. The findings highlight the need for robust research to establish clear correlations and inform staffing policies in psychiatric care.