Nurse to patient Ratio

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Hey guys,

I work as a nursing director in a hospice/LTC hospital in KSA, we have 160 bed capacity with an occupancy rate of 90%, I cannot find any research or resource for the exact needed amount of nurse or PCA(patient care assistant). currently, we are doing 1 to 6, 1 to 7 in a 36 patient unit. on the shift there is 2-3 PCA helping out. all of the patients are bedridden, and some have a tracheostomy.  any inputs? I feel that the nurses are really struggling..

Specializes in retired LTC.

Please - what's KSA?

You've asked for some motivational ideas - what about preferred parking privileges? I'm betting 'visitor parking' is down so some spots should be open.

How about some additional 'earned PTO'?  Really accrued, shown on each paycheck and then it MUST be used at 8 hrs, say, within a month? And it's short term.

Also, thinking about lightening the load - have you looked at decreasing the med pass by reviewing each pt's med profile to eliminate some meds? I mean how critical is calcium and/or  osteo-biflex for some pts? Can some combo-meds be used? Like the ones that combine a diuretic with a cardiac med as 1 pill? The pharmacy consultant can be an asset for recommendations.

Could some 'pre'stocking' supplies for certain pts be an option?  I realize what goes in a room has to stay there or be tossed. But say, for a bedbound, freq turned pt, maybe 2 extra blue pads and briefs and a few wipes be stocked/provided by each off-going CNA staff? In that room. Incoming staff would have a quick supply, not being required to run & get supplies. NEVER to be overstocked.

Similarly, pre-assembling small dressing bags could be made avail. Nurse would just need to grab a bag that had the specific supplies needed for Ms Jones spec drsg.

Food is not a bad idea, but that soggy, cold pizza is nothing appealing to me. But I have seen where individual wrapped mini-hoagies were a hit! I could grab one, take it home and enjoy on my time. Or let my kids enjoy.

Just some thoughts.

And it's very thoughtful that you have such a caring attitude for good care for you pts and also for your staff. TY on their behalf.

 

 

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Specializes in ER, Management.

I guess the work settings here in saudi arabia are different than other countries... here we offer accommodation with transpo.. in my hospital rarely there is a nurse with his own car and house... so this free parking won't be of a help for the nursing dep. but good idea though.. I have looked into some books and articles.. I found that more than 35% are rethinking the non renewal of contract because of the sufficient  appreciation from his boss.. I. Guess I should start reorienting the headnurses :)

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Specializes in ER, Management.

amoLucia

great Ideas... I like it... 

KSA is Saudi Arabia. I work in LTC hospital 160 bed, with a ratio of 1;6 with 2-3 pca per floor. on average the floor is 30-38 patients. I am also from out of KSA and the staff are mostly from filipins (Small bodies  usually) turning/bathing is a hell for them! thats y I try to get the big bodies as a PCA

out of desperation, I joined this allnurses, and I can see that it is VERY helpful. it is always a great idea to reach out and ask for help.. and that is when you can explore new ideas, it will be a combined experience. 

Thanks, dear.

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What about you a hire medication aides to help pass medications. Nurses will only give PRN meds. That will decrease load from nurses. 

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