The Impact of Nurse-Patient Ratios on Patient Outcomes: A Systematic Review of evidence-based Practices

Abstract

This systematic review examines the impact of nurse-to-patient staffing ratios on patient outcomes, focusing on evidence-based practices from 2020 to the present. It found that poor ratios are associated with adverse outcomes, such as increased mortality and medical errors. Improved ratios lead to better clinical outcomes, such as reduced complications and improved patient experiences. The review also highlights the importance of staffing levels in specialized care environments, such as ICUs and surgical wards, where specialized nursing care is needed. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for adequate staffing, as hospitals with proper staffing responded better to the surge in patients. The review also highlights the implications for healthcare policy and workforce planning, emphasizing the need for policy reforms to ensure adequate nursing staff is available during high-demand periods. Further research is needed to develop evidence-driven strategies for optimizing healthcare delivery and improving care quality across different settings.