Nurse staffing levels and quality of care in Northeastern Pennsylvania nursing homes

This study evaluated current nurse staffing levels in 90 licensed nursing homes in Northeastern Pennsylvania to determine whether they are significantly different from state and national averages. It further examined the association between nurse staffing and quality of patient care provided to nursing home residents. Findings indicate that although nurse staffing levels appear to be comparable with state and national averages, quality of care might be negatively affected when nurse staffing levels are reduced. Practical recommendations for solutions to the current nurse recruitment and retention crises are presented to ensure adequate nurse staffing and quality of care to elderly citizens. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.