Our nurse-to-patient ratios define the minimum number of nurses expected on a ward. These ratios help make sure our patients are provided with the best nursing care possible.
What are nurse-to-patient ratios?
In 2015, Victoria became the first state in Australia to set minimum nurse-to-patient ratios in public hospitals via the Safe Patient Care Act 2015.
These ratios mean that the number of nurses required on a ward will depend on the number of patients (occupied beds).
The Safe Patient Care Act specifies different ratios depending on the level of care those patients may require.
Mixed ward ratios
A mixed ward is a ward where more than one nurse-to-patient ratio applies.
Ward 2B/Coronary Care Unit (CCU) at the RMH Parkville is a mixed ward, requiring two different minimum ratios for patients under the Safe Patient Care Act.
Ward 2B/Coronary Care Unit mixed ward ratios
The following mixed ward ratios are effective 1 July 2024.
Total maximum number of occupied beds across ward 2B/CCU: 33
General medicine patients
Maximum expected number of occupied beds: 27
Morning shift:
- 1 nurse to 4 patients
- 1 nurse in charge (covers the unit)
Afternoon shift:
- 1 nurse to 4 patients
- 1 nurse in charge (covers the unit)
Night shift:
- 1 nurse to 8 patients
- 1 nurse in charge (covers the unit)
Coronary Care Unit patients
Maximum expected number of occupied beds: 6
- Morning shift: 1 nurse to 2 patients
- Afternoon shift: 1 nurse to 2 patients
- Night shift: 1 nurse to 3 patients