Development of an acuity measurement tool specific to haematology and haemopoietic stem cell transplant patients

Abstract

The lack of recognition, within New South Wales (NSW), of the degree of complexity involved in the management of Haematology/Stem Cell Transplant (SCT) patients have long been a source of frustration for nurses working in this area. This is largely attributable to the inadequacy of existing generic tools to accurately quantify specific haematology/ST patient acuity. This lack of accurate information has led, over time, to the erosion of staffing levels, inappropriate skill mix and unsafe patient/staff ratios.