Safe Staffing

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Dear Dr Helen Aveyard (Editor, Journal of Advanced Nursing), As the Editor of the Advanced Journal of Nursing, I wish to bring to your attention a matter that I believe will be of relevance to you and readers. This matter underscores the impact on comprehensive nursing practice and underscores the necessity for facilitating discussions on policy changes aimed at enhancing practice standards and improving patient experience. I am a second-year BSc (Hons) nursing student deeply concerned about the critical issue of safe staffing of wards in healthcare settings. This issue came to my attention during my clinical placement. Through my experiences in clinical placements, I have witnessed the impact that inadequate staffing levels have on patient …show more content…

Adequate staffing levels enable nurses to engage in effective problem-solving and decision-making processes to address complex healthcare challenges (Vogus et al. 2021). The. With manageable workloads, nurses can critically assess patient needs, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and implement evidence-based interventions to optimise patient outcomes. Nurses serve as educators, empowering patients, and their families to actively participate in their care (Williams and Radnor, 2021). Safe staffing of wards allows nurses to allocate time for patient education, providing clear explanations, demonstrations, and resources to promote health literacy and self-management skills. This also allows nurses to support student nurses with their learning and development. Safe staffing levels contribute to the creation of a supportive environment where patients feel valued, respected, and cared for. Nurses can effectively assist patients in meeting their physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs (Onu et …show more content…

Highlight the cost-effectiveness of investing in staffing as a preventive measure against adverse events and the long-term benefits of improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with complications from understaffing. 5. What is the difference between a'smart' and a'smart'? Invest in Recruitment and Retention: Allocate resources towards recruitment efforts to attract qualified nursing staff. Implement strategies to improve retention rates, such as offering competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and creating a positive work environment that supports nurses' well-being. Provide access to support services, mental health resources, and wellness programs to support nurses in maintaining their health and resilience. Conclusion: In conclusion, I urge all stakeholders within the healthcare community to prioritise safe staffing of wards as a fundamental component of nursing care. Implementing the recommendations outlined above and actively involving those living with illness in decision-making processes, we can create environments that prioritise patient safety, enhance the well-being of nursing staff, and uphold the values of compassionate and high-quality nursing

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