What are the risks of understaffing in healthcare facilities?

1 Patient outcomes

One of the most obvious risks of understaffing is that it can compromise the outcomes of the patients who rely on the healthcare services. Understaffing can lead to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and discharge, as well as increased chances of errors, infections, and complications. For example, a study by the American Nurses Association found that understaffing was associated with higher rates of mortality, readmission, and adverse events among hospitalized patients. Moreover, understaffing can affect the satisfaction and trust of the patients, who may perceive a lack of attention, communication, and empathy from the staff.

2 Staff burnout

Another risk of understaffing is that it can cause burnout among the healthcare workers, who have to cope with increased workload, stress, and pressure. Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can impair the performance, motivation, and health of the staff. According to a survey by Medscape, 42% of physicians and 51% of nurses reported experiencing burnout in 2020, and understaffing was one of the main contributors. Burnout can also lead to higher turnover, absenteeism, and dissatisfaction among the staff, which can further worsen the understaffing situation.

3 Organizational performance

A third risk of understaffing is that it can affect the overall performance and reputation of the healthcare facility. Understaffing can result in lower quality and efficiency of care, as well as higher costs and liabilities. For instance, a report by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality estimated that understaffing could cost hospitals up to $14 billion per year due to increased length of stay, hospital-acquired conditions, and malpractice claims. Furthermore, understaffing can damage the image and credibility of the facility, as it may indicate a lack of resources, management, and commitment to the patients and staff.

4 Risk management

Understaffing is a serious challenge for healthcare facilities, but with effective risk management strategies, it is not inevitable or irreversible. Data and analytics can be used to forecast demand and optimize staff scheduling and allocation. Adequate training, support, and feedback should be provided to the staff to enhance their skills, confidence, and morale. Protocols and tools can be implemented to standardize and streamline care processes and reduce errors and waste. Engaging and empowering the staff to participate in decision-making and problem-solving can also be beneficial. Additionally, promoting a culture of safety, quality, and collaboration among the staff and with other stakeholders is important. If necessary, external assistance or collaboration can be sought out by hiring temporary staff, outsourcing services, or partnering with other facilities. By recognizing and addressing the risks of understaffing, healthcare facilities can improve their outcomes, performance, and reputation, as well as the well-being of their staff and patients.