With the staff downsizing of the 1990s and the shortage of the early 21st century, inadequate staffing is becoming an increasing concern for both nurses and the public.
Several research studies have found a strong connection between low nurse staffing and higher rates of patient complications such as infections, cardiac arrest, and gastrointestinal bleeding. A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine determined that patient mortality was significantly related to nurse staffing levels.
For more than a decade, NYSNA has been a strong advocate for safe nurse staffing. Our members have negotiated groundbreaking contracts with specific nurse-to-patient ratios. We continue to lobby for state legislation establishing staffing standards in hospitals and nursing homes.
Safe Nurse Staffing brochure (.pdf format; Adobe Reader required)