Understanding Nurse Staffing and Patient Care in Hospitals
Evaluating Hospital Nurse Resources as a Driver of Outcomes Differences in Hospitals Serving High-Risk Patients
This project explores how the number and qualifications of nurses in hospitals might influence the quality of care, especially for patients with higher health risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099726 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project aims to understand why some hospitals achieve better patient outcomes than others, particularly for patients who are considered high-risk. Researchers believe that the availability and expertise of nursing staff significantly impact the quality of care patients receive. They will examine various nursing resources, such as having enough staff, a supportive work environment, and nurses with advanced training, to see how these factors contribute to patient well-being. The ultimate goal is to pinpoint specific, adjustable elements related to nursing that can be improved to ensure all patients consistently receive excellent hospital care.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not involve direct patient recruitment, but its findings are intended to benefit all patients, particularly those with high-risk conditions receiving hospital care.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require hospital care would not directly benefit from the specific findings of this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to improved hospital staffing practices, potentially enhancing patient safety and care quality across different hospitals.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research has consistently shown a connection between sufficient nursing staff and positive patient outcomes, providing a strong foundation for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lasater, Karen Blanchette — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Lasater, Karen Blanchette
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.