‘Defining moment’ for nursing: Joint Commission recognizes staffing as quality component

Starting in 2026, The Joint Commission will formally recognize nurse staffing as a national performance goal, meaning hospitals seeking accreditation must meet certain standards related to staffing and oversight. 

Under the new element of performance, known as Goal 12, healthcare organizations must have a nurse executive responsible for overseeing staffing policies and procedures. The goal stipulates that hospitals have a registered nurse on duty to either directly provide care or supervise nursing services provided by other staff 24/7. This marks the first time the organization has included nurse staffing as a core component of quality.

“There must be an adequate number of licensed registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and other staff to provide nursing care to all patients, as needed,” the rule states. 

The American Nurses Association celebrated the move, calling it a “defining moment” for the profession. The change also could influence how payers and policymakers approach reimbursement tied to care quality.

“The inclusion of nurse staffing as a national performance goal validates what hospitals have always known, that adequate staffing is essential to prevent patient harm, improve patient outcomes and create a safer environment,” Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, PhD, RN, president of the ANA, said in a statement. “While this marks a tremendous step forward, we will continue to advocate for all accrediting bodies to adopt similar standards so that every hospital upholds safe staffing as a top priority.”

The new standard will take effect Jan. 1. 

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