Safe ratios are the maximum number of patients assigned to a team of healthcare professionals to guarantee safe conditions both for the staff and patients.

For example, a safe ratio in a CHSLD could be: one nurse and one licensed practical nurse for 20 patients during the day (2/20), and for 37 patients at night (2/37).

Unfortunately, despite hundreds of studies demonstrating the effectiveness of safe ratios, the government continues to turn a deaf ear. It is therefore foregoing one of the best solutions to ensure the safety and quality of care and that there is enough staff in the public health network.

Learn more: https://www.fiqsante.qc.ca/en/ratios/