Perspective               

Patient Care Threatened

A survey done by the American Nurses Association reveals that short staffing, mandatory overtime, lack of supplies, and use of "floating" nurses are becoming dangerously too common in American hospitals. As a result of these deteriorating working conditions, the quality of nursing care is declining in hospitals nationwide.

Of the 7,299 nurses surveyed, 75 percent felt the quality of nursing care at their facility has worsened over the past two years, while 54 percent said they would not recommend their profession to their children or friends.

In addition, more than 40 percent of surveyed nurses said they would not feel comfortable having a family member or someone close to them be cared for in their facility. ANA President Mary Foley says that this should send a red flag to the American public that something is definitely wrong in our nation's health care facilities.

The survey results are even more alarming when looked at together with the nurses' ages. Over 65 percent of respondents will likely retire within the decade. "These findings reinforce what we already know," said Foley, "that today's nurses not only are frustrated, but that many soon will be retiring, and that younger people will not choose nursing as a career unless we improve working conditions and compensation, and address health and safety concerns." In short, many of America's nurses are overwhelmed and overworked. Unfortunately, this means that you may receive poor care as a patient in a health care facility. If you feel that the quality of nursing care is poor, contact your local Peer Review Organization. The number is listed in Medicare & You.

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