Responding to the study published in BMJ Quality & Safety that shows a shortage of ward nurses is linked to higher mortality rates and worse patient outcomes, Lynn Woolsey, RCN's Chief Nursing Officer, said:

“This report is yet more evidence of the clear link between nurse shortages and higher patient mortality. As the highly-skilled, 24/7 presence in hospitals nursing staff should be a priority for investment but the reality is we are undervalued and short of tens of thousands.

“Ministers need to recognise that investment in nursing more than pays for itself, improving patient safety and the health of the population. Our profession is in a unique position to help people live longer, healthier lives and save money for the NHS and government. 

"As student recruitment collapses and the numbers quitting nursing rises, new funding to boost recruitment and retention couldn’t be more urgent. This must include a fair pay award this year that nursing staff can get behind. Any further delay will only deepen the workforce crisis and harm patient care.”

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