WA Nurse to Patient Ratio?

kalycat, BSN, RN · Mar 18, 2015

Hi, we don't have state mandated ratios like Cali. However, many of the hospitals are Union. You can check out the WA state nurses association for more info and to look up current collective bargaining agreements. I am a new grad, but did clinicals at both Union and non-Union facilities. The Union facility is part of a large healthcare network that has facilities in several locations. For that facility, medical floors typically have a ratio of 4-5 patients per nurse. I spent time on medical/respiratory, med-onc, general peds, and peds oncology (to name a few). Peds Onc had lower ratios depending on acuity. ICU and PICU were typically 1-2 patients; depending on acuity you might have 3. L & D was typically 1:1 or 2. Good luck in your job search! There are many, many residency programs in the Seattle area; Swedish's is currently open, Virginia Mason has a good one, and there are many at smaller hospitals that don't advertise as much. Just be aware, however, PICU is one of the most competitive areas statewide, and I've heard reports from other new grads that hiring to any unit is quite competitive if you are NOT going through a residency. If you aren't committed to staying in the Seattle area, you may consider Spokane. The cost of living is reasonable, the climate is great, and outdoor recreation is plentiful. Best wishes!

tokmom, BSN, RN · Mar 22, 2015

If you want peds, there is Children's in Seattle and Mary Bridge in Tacoma.

Can't help with the rest, but good luck!