The effect of an organisational model on the standard of care.

An Australian hospital was experiencing a long-term nursing staff shortage (in common with many hospitals throughout the world). The shortage led to concerns that patient care and supervision of less-experienced nursing staff was compromised. A survey was undertaken to ascertain which organisational models were used in the hospital, and how well these enabled nurses to provide a high standard of care. The findings suggest that the patient-allocation model should be maintained where practical and that team nursing should be trialled where poor numbers and skill-mix demand a greater degree of supervision and support.