38^th Global Nursing Care and Patient Safety

Biography

Biography: Dr. Homa Patel

Abstract

Statement of the Problem: Nursing efficiency includes more than only effective use of resources; it includes competent standard care in keeping with the Code of Ethics for nursing profession, the effective interpersonal relationship/communication, the appropriate use of technology and adequate Nurse- Patient Ratio (Staffing). This level of high quality nursing practice leads to efficient nursing care with reduced length of hospitalization stay for the patient thereby saving the cost of treatment for the hospital and the patient. Hence seems there is a gap between nurses' perceptions of efficiency in patient care in keeping with their professional training and that of the hospital manager who sees efficiency in patient care in terms of controlling costs. The purpose of this study is to survey the Perception of Staff Nurses and Nurse Managers about Nursing Efficiency in Patient Care in a Trust Hospital. Materials & Methods: This was a quantitative and explanatory research design where data was collected from staff nurses as well as nurse managers. This study was carried out in a trust hospital in rural Gujarat of India. Data collection tool was the questionnaire and the data collection method was interview schedules. Findings: The study explored the gap regarding perception of efficiency between nurses and nurse managers. Statistical Tests had shown difference between perception of staff nurse and nurse managers regarding factors which affect efficiency of patient care. Conclusion: The study had shown that unlike the Nurse Managers, the staff nurse expressed dissatisfaction and inability to apply their professional education, Nursing Code of Ethics and Nursing Standards in their routine work and mentioned obstacles like nursing shortage, high workload, and insufficiency in equipment. Recommendations are to suggest ways of bringing this perception closer so that patient care is given highest priority.