Disparities in Patient Outcomes Highlighted in Hospitals Serving Black Communities

A recent investigation published in Nursing Research has revealed significant disparities in patient outcomes in hospitals that primarily serve Black communities. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Nursing, analyzed data from over 3,000 hospitals across the United States from 2019 to 2022.

The research focused on four critical nursing-sensitive indicators: pressure ulcers, perioperative pulmonary embolus/deep vein thrombosis, postoperative sepsis, and 'failure to rescue,' which refers to mortality following serious surgical complications. These indicators are closely tied to the quality of nursing care and can greatly impact a patient's recovery and overall health.

Researchers categorized hospitals based on the percentage of Black patients they served, determining high, medium, and low Black-serving hospitals (BSHs). The findings revealed alarming trends, with hospitals serving higher proportions of Black patients reporting considerably higher rates of adverse outcomes.

For instance, the overall average rates for the studied indicators were 0.59 for pressure ulcers, 3.38 for perioperative pulmonary embolus/deep vein thrombosis, 4.12 for sepsis, and 143.58 for failure to rescue. However, hospitals categorized as high BSHs exhibited notably elevated rates of pressure ulcers, postoperative sepsis, and perioperative pulmonary embolus/deep vein thrombosis. The failure-to-rescue rates, however, did not show significant differences across the BSH categories.

Interestingly, the study also found that Black-serving hospitals were more likely to hold Magnet designation--an acknowledgment of nursing excellence--compared to their counterparts, with figures of 14% versus 12%. This paradox suggests that despite having recognized nursing excellence, patient outcomes in these hospitals remain concerning.

The findings underscore the pressing need to address systemic issues that contribute to these disparities in patient care. The researchers called for further investigation into the underlying factors, particularly how nursing resources, including staffing levels and working conditions, correlate with patient outcomes in these facilities. The observed poor indicators in high BSHs, alongside previously documented inadequate nurse staffing, highlight the necessity for immediate policy reforms and management strategies aimed at improving care quality in these hospitals.