Identifies the major elements needed to achieve optimal staffing, which enhances the delivery of safe, quality care. These principles apply to all types of nurse staffing at every practice level and in any health care or practice setting. They are grounded in the substantive and growing body of evidence that demonstrates the link between adequate nurse staffing and better patient outcomes. Focused on addressing the complexities of nurse staffing decisions, the principles and supporting material in this publication will guide nurses and other decision-makers in identifying and developing the processes and policies needed to improve nurse staffing.