Section 257.002 - Legislative Findings(a) The legislature finds that:(1) research supports a conclusion that adequate nurse staffing is directly related to positive patient outcomes and nurse satisfaction with the practice environment;(2) nurse satisfaction with the practice environment is in large measure determined by providing an adequate level of nurse staffing based on research findings and patient intensity;(3) nurse satisfaction and patient safety can be adversely affected when nurses work excessive hours; and(4) hospitals and nurses share a mutual interest in patient safety initiatives that create a healthy environment for nurses and appropriate care for patients.(b) In order to protect patients, support greater retention of registered nurses, and promote adequate nurse staffing, the legislature intends to establish a mechanism whereby nurses and hospital management shall participate in a joint process regarding decisions about nurse staffing.Tex. Health and Safety Code § 257.002
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 742, Sec. 1, eff. 9/1/2009.