Patient density, nurse-to-patient ratio and nosocomial infection risk in a pediatric cardiac intensive care unit

Abstract

The NIR was most strongly correlated with patient census but also was strongly associated with the nursing hours:patient day ratio. These factors may influence the infection rate because of breaks in health care worker aseptic technique or decreased hand washing. Increased patient census alone may increase the risk of cross-transmission of nosocomial infections. As hospitals proceed with cost containment efforts the effect of fluctuations in patient census and nurse staffing on patient outcomes needs evaluation.