Nursing Staffing Ratio

Calculate nurse-to-patient ratios and staffing needs by unit type.

Results

Visualization

How It Works

Nurse-to-patient ratios vary by unit type: ICU typically requires 1:1 or 1:2, telemetry 1:4, med-surg 1:4 to 1:6, and postpartum 1:3 to 1:4. California is the only US state with mandated ratios. Adequate staffing directly correlates with patient outcomes including mortality, falls, medication errors, and hospital-acquired infections.