The Impact of Perceived Nurses' Workload on the Quality of Care in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This literature review systematically synthesizes the academic evidence on the impact of perceived nurses' workload on the quality of care in Saudi Arabia (KSA). Driven by the healthcare transformation goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the KSA nursing sector faces unique challenges, including a persistent nursing shortage and reliance on an expatriate workforce, which contribute to high-perceived workload. The review establishes that this high-perceived workload, a subjective measure of job demands, is a critical determinant of care quality. It is strongly associated with negative workforce outcomes, such as burnout and high turnover intention, and directly compromises patient safety. Specifically, high workload is a primary predictor of Missed Nursing Care (MNC), increased medication errors, and a higher incidence of adverse events like patient falls and Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs). Furthermore, it erodes the patient experience by reducing time for essential communication and negatively affects clinical outcomes, including increased Length of Stay and readmission rates. To mitigate these threats, the review recommends a shift to acuity-based, quality-driven staffing models, the implementation of mandatory minimum staffing standards, the strategic use of technology to eliminate non-nursing tasks, and a national mandate for standardized workload measurement tools. Addressing the perceived workload of nurses is essential for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to successfully deliver on its promise of excellent healthcare.