Does missed nursing care predict job satisfaction?

This study explores the impact of missed nursing care (required patient care that is omitted) on job satisfaction of nursing personnel. Data from 3,135 registered nurses (RNs) and 939 nursing assistants (NAs) on 110 patient care units in ten midwestern hospitals revealed that nursing staff who perceived less missed nursing care on the patient care unit where they work are more satisfied in their current position and occupation. Perceptions of staffing adequacy also significantly predicted both satisfaction variables. Focused interventions aimed at decreasing missed care and ensuring staffing adequacy are needed to improve job satisfaction and patient care.