Journal of professional nursing : official journal of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing
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Based on a revision of Donabedian's classic structure, process, and outcome conceptual framework, this study examined the relationship between resource use (length of stay) and outcome (transfer status) in two respiratory intensive care units (ICUs). Medical records of respiratory ICU patients (N = 194) from a medical center in northern Taiwan were reviewed. Data collection focused on patient demographic profile (age, gender, and medical diagnosis), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) score, nursing diagnoses, ICU length of stay, and transfer status. ⋯ Nonetheless, a higher APACHE score was correlated with a poor transfer status. These findings indicate that, in addition to the traditional indicators, nursing diagnoses may be a vital variable in predicting ICU length of stay. The results also imply that patients with lower APACHE scores are in better physical condition and are therefore institutionalized longer in ICUs.
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The present nursing faculty shortage is linked to the general nursing shortage. Without enough nurse educators to teach the increasing number of nurses that are needed, the health of U. S. residents is at stake. ⋯ Linking the general nursing shortage with the faculty shortage may provide a stronger case for public policy and funding initiatives. There are signs that some initiatives are working. Present faculty need to maintain a culture of hope while potential solutions are being implemented.