Evidence shows better use of nurses can save money and help patients: CFNU

A growing body of scientific evidence shows that a more effective distribution and use of the nursing workforce can result in better use of health care budgets and improved overall patient safety, the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions says in a statement marking the beginning of National Nursing Week.

“Failure to take advantage of the full potential of the nursing workforce represents a significant ongoing loss to the health care system and our communities as a whole,” said CFNU President Linda Silas in the statement published Friday.

“During National Nursing Week, let’s use this evidence to help create more effective and efficient health care systems that truly benefits all Canadians,” Silas said.

Smarter distribution and use of the nursing workforce would result in lower health care costs through better management of chronic diseases, continuity of patient care and follow-up, improved access to services, fewer adverse events and complications and shorter hospital stays, the CFNU said.  

National Nursing Week officially runs from May 9 to 16.

Click here to read the entire CFNU statement.