Setting appropriate ward nurse staffing levels

This document provides information, tools, principles and a benchmark skill mix ratio for nurse staffing levels on NHS acute general wards.

This policy draws together: 

• Research evidence linking registered nurse numbers and expertise to patient outcomes
• Nursing workforce and nurse staffing levels data
• Methods available for setting nurse staffing levels
• Discussion about setting nurse: patient ratios

It provides guidance and principles on how to review ward staffing levels including the recommendation that a benchmark ward establishment skill mix ratio is set at 65% registered nurses : 35% health care assistants unless or until a through staffing review is undertaken in accordance with RCN principles.

For further information, please email papa.ukintl.dept@rcn.org.uk