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Workload Issues

Changes in work organization resulting from restructuring, downsizing, and layoffs within the healthcare industry are resulting in decreased staffing levels, increased workloads and time pressures, and longer hours of work. Because of the nature of their work, healthcare workers also face unique stressors including: exposure to illness and death; the need to provide adequate patient care; and shift work. Exposure to such stressors has been found to be related to numerous health problems, including headaches, digestive problems, heart disease, injuries (including back and nsi), fatigue and depression.
From 'Occupational Health and Safety,' by Susan Wilburn, MPH, RN

 

From the American Journal of Nursing

Every Patient Deserves a Safe Nurse
Patient safety cannot be achieved when nurses are not safe.

 

Related Content

WSNA's Safe Staffing special interest page, with more information about safe nurse staffing, and news about Washington State's newly-passed Patient Safety Act.

 

On the Web

The American Nurses Association's National Center for Nursing Quality (NCNQ)

Centers for Medicaid Services reports to Congress on staffing in nursing homes

Nursing World - Appropriate Staffing


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