California’s Nurse-to-Patient Ratios, Part 2: 8 Years Later, What Do We Know About Hospital Level Outcomes?

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: 

The aim of the study was to identify and describe the impact of California’s nurse-to-patient ratios on hospital level outcomes from a comprehensive literature review.

BACKGROUND: 

While implemented in 2004, questions remain about the effects ratios have had on hospitals’ financial status and access to care.

METHODS: 

A comprehensive literature review was conducted.

RESULTS: 

Findings suggest labor costs increased, and some reductions in services were made after the implementation of staffing ratios.

CONCLUSIONS: 

Implementing staffing ratios had a negative financial impact on selected outcomes of California hospitals.

In Brief

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