A Comparative Analysis of Nursing Manhour Levels and Costs in the V.A. and Civilian Hospital Systems. A Preliminary Assessment

摘要

This report summarizes the results of a pilot study comparing nursing manhour levels and costs in the VA and civilian hospital systems. Three indices of nursing manhour levels and costs were measured and analyzed: (1) the average number of hours of nursing care provided per patient day; (2) the average cost of that care per patient day; and (3) the average cost of nursing care provided per patient episode. The primary focus of the study has been to identify any significant differences between the two sectors in the values of the three indices mentioned above and, when differences exist, to suggest some of the factors which may be contributing to the variation in their values.