Safety critical nurse-to-patient ratios
Setting limits on the maximum number of patients per registered nurse in every UK health care setting
The evidence is clear. We need staffing levels that protect nursing staff and patient safety.
Every day, nursing staff are forced to care for too many patients by a system that undervalues and underfunds nursing.
Research shows that this puts patients at risk. More patients die when there are too few registered nurses.We need the right number of nursing staff in the right places with the right skills and experience. But funding restrictions and NHS budget cuts mean many nurses care for unsafe numbers of patients, facing overwhelming pressure and burnout.
The price of unsafe staffing is simply too high. But legislating minimum nurse-to-patient ratios could help. We're working to ensure that safe staffing becomes a reality in all settings where nursing care is delivered across the UK.
Evaluating the evidence
In other parts of the world, like California, mandatory nurse-to-patient ratios exist to protect nursing staff and patients.
Our Workforce Academy commissioned the internationally leading Health Workforce and Systems Research Group at the University of Southampton University to conduct independent analysis of existing international research, on the impact of mandatory minimum nurse-to-patient ratios and safe staffing legislation.
The conclusions drawn are inescapable. They provide further evidence that backs our calls to enshrine nurse-to-patient ratios in law to radically transform care quality.
Opinion: ‘The price of unsafe staffing is too high’
From better outcomes for staff and patients to long-term cost savings, Director of the ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Institute for Nursing Excellence Professor Jane Ball makes the case for nurse-to-patient ratios.
Our path to change
Decisions about minimum nurse-to-patient ratios should be considered carefully using evidence and expertise. This is our approach.
Raise awareness
We're highlighting the risks of unsafe staffing, using evidence from our members, as well as academic research.
Grow the evidence
We'll continue to build evidence, based on international research and successes in countries such as the US and Australia.
Build solutions
We're committed to a multi-year programme of work to improve nurse staffing through practical, long-term solutions.
Actions you can take today
Become a standards champion
Our Nursing Workforce Standards set out what must happen within workplaces for nursing staff to deliver expert, patient-centred care. Help embed them at your workplace.
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