Calculating the optimal number of nurses based on nursing intensity by patient classification groups in general units in South Korea: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to calculate the total daily nursing workload and the optimal number of nurses per general unit based on the nursing intensity. Design: This study was conducted using a cross-sectional study. Methods: Three units at one general hospital were investigated. Patient classification according to nursing needs was performed for over 10 days in each unit in September 2018. The direct and non-direct nursing time and nursing intensity scores were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: For the internal medicine unit, the average direct nursing time per patient was 1.0, 1.5, 2.2 and 2.9 h for Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. For the surgical unit, the average direct nursing time per patient was 0.9, 1.4, 2.1 and 2.6 h for Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. 5 and 9 additional nurses were needed in the internal medicine and surgical nursing units. Patient Contribution: This study confirmed that the optimal number of nurses was not achieved and that the nursing intensity was very high. Long-term efforts, such as improving the nursing environment, should be made to ensure an optimal number of nurses in various nursing units.