Legislation Targets Understaffing of Hospital Nurses

Many hospitals are plagued by understaffing or shortages in their nursing ranks, increasing the risk of patient injuries. A team of lawmakers recently introduced legislation aimed at improving the level of staffing and the quality of care provided by nurses.

A prominent nursing group has just released a statement supporting this piece of legislation.

The Registered Nurse Safe Staffing Act of 2013 was introduced by Rep. Lois Capps, a California Democrat, and Rep. David Joyce, a Republican from Ohio. The legislation would require hospitals that serve Medicare patients to create and establish staffing committees.

Each staffing committee would be entrusted with the task of developing an effective and efficient staffing plan that takes into consideration the medical needs of patients. At least 55 percent of the members of a committee would be nurses involved in the direct care of patients.

In developing a staffing plan, a committee would consider the level of education and training of nurses as well as the degree of experience needed by registered nurses who provide care.

The Emergency Nurses Association, a prominent nursing group, recently announced its support for the legislation.

Staff shortages can leave nurses stressed, fatigued, and overworked, creating a high risk of serious medical errors, such as medication mistakes. When nurses are responsible for more patients than they can handle, patient safety may be compromised.

The medical malpractice lawyers at Morrow Kidman Tinker Macey-Cushman, PLLC represent victims of medical negligence by doctors, nurses, technicians, and other medical personnel in Seattle and across Washington.

Source:

• www.ena.org/media/PressReleases/Pages/SafeStaffingAct.aspx