The Effects of Implementing a Patient Acuity Tool on Nurse Satisfaction in a Pulmonary Medicine Unit.

In response to nurses' concerns of equity and satisfaction with patient assignments in a pulmonary medicine unit, a Patient Acuity Tool (PAT) was implemented. The impact of the PAT on nurse satisfaction and perceived equity of patient assignments was measured using a pre-/postsurvey design. Findings of the investigation indicate that a PAT supports nurse satisfaction and equity. In addition, qualitative data suggested that the PAT improved perceived professional autonomy and nurse-to-nurse communication.