[Comparative analysis of methods finalized at defining the need for nursing staff. Evaluation of work loads].

Due to demographic and technological changes , medical progress and increased demand, nursing work-loads are changing. The aim of this study is to observe which methods exist in other countries to assess the need for nursing staff. The results obtained show that the choice of the method for evaluating nursing requirements is strongly influenced by the health economy policy adopted in each single country and by the type of care erogated by the health institution considered.