PREVALENCE AND CONTRIBUTING FACTORS OF MISSED NURSING CARE AMONG SENIOR NURSING STAFF IN HOSPITAL SETTINGS

Abstract

Background

Missed nursing care, defined as any aspect of required patient care that is delayed, partially completed, or omitted, is a global concern affecting patient safety and healthcare quality. It serves as a crucial indicator of the effectiveness of healthcare systems and the adequacy of nursing resources. Understanding the prevalence and contributing factors of missed nursing care is essential to improving nursing performance and patient outcomes.

Aim

The study aimed to assess the prevalence of missed nursing care among registered nurses and identify the underlying factors contributing to care omissions at Sir Ganga Ram Tertiary Care Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 245 registered nurses selected through a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using an adopted, structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, frequency, and reasons for missed nursing care. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage distributions, were analyzed using SPSS software version 25.

Results

Findings revealed that 49.8% of nurses sometimes missed nursing care, while 27.8% often did so. Documentation, emotional support, and patient education were the most frequently missed aspects, whereas medication administration was rarely omitted. The primary reasons reported were inadequate staffing (84.1%), work overload (83.3%), and lack of equipment (77.1%).

Conclusion

Missed nursing care is prevalent and primarily influenced by systemic factors rather than individual negligence. Enhancing staffing levels, resource availability, and communication practices can significantly reduce care omissions and improve patient safety.