The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) has welcomed a boost to staffing numbers, with the imminent introduction of nurse-to-patient ratios in NSW public hospitals.

Shift by shift ratios will begin in the emergency departments (EDs) at Royal North Shore and Liverpool hospitals in the coming weeks. Around 70 additional full time equivalent (FTE) nurses are being recruited across both sites to meet the minimum ratio of one to one in resuscitation bays, and one nurse to three generally occupied treatment spaces in ED, with the aim of improving timely emergency care for patients.

NSWNMA General Secretary, Shaye Candish, said the implementation of minimum and enforceable nurse-to-patient ratios meant patient safety would no longer be compromised.

“After a decade of campaigning, we are very pleased to see this important piece of healthcare reform finally come to fruition in NSW. These shift by shift ratios can’t come soon enough for our nurses and midwives – it’s the reprieve they so urgently need,” said Ms Candish.

“It will provide crucial workload relief for our members, who have been struggling with chronic understaffing for too long. It will also ensure our public hospitals are safer for patients, so they receive the care they deserve.

“We are confident this staffing model will help to rebuild the workforce and lead to higher retention levels, while providing savings within health in the long run.”

NSWNMA Assistant General Secretary, Michael Whaites, said while the union was relieved to see ratios begin, there was still a lot of work to be done.

“We are eagerly anticipating the expansion of ratios to other EDs, and then ICUs, adult in-patient wards, maternity services and our state’s multi-purpose service sites, with the government committing to 2480 FTE nurses and midwives to achieve this,” said Mr Whaites.

“We are seeking further funding from the government to ensure these five clinical areas receive ratios. Current funding means the rollout won’t cover all wards and units in every hospital.

“In addition, we look forward to negotiations with the state government after serving our 15% pay and conditions claim, which will make nurses and midwives competitive with other states. The pay claim also takes into account a decade of wage suppression by previous governments.

“Nurses and midwives must not be forced to choose between safe workloads and fair pay. They deserve more in 2024.”

The NSWNMA has been working with the state government on the implementation of this workforce initiative through the Safe Staffing Levels Taskforce since May 2023.