Patient outcomes. Are they linked to registered nurse absenteeism, separation, or work load?

Using a correlation design, the authors explored the possible associations between patient outcomes and staff registered nurse absenteeism, separation from the work unit, and work load. Data analysis included a search for consistent patterns of relationships across acute care hospitals and over time. Nosocomial urinary tract and bloodstream infections correlated positively with absenteeism. The authors discuss clinical and methodological issues related to the findings.