Texas Health and Safety Code - HEALTH & SAFETY § 257.002. Legislative Findings

(1) research supports a conclusion that adequate nurse staffing is directly related to positive patient outcomes and nurse satisfaction with the practice environment;

(2) nurse satisfaction with the practice environment is in large measure determined by providing an adequate level of nurse staffing based on research findings and patient intensity;

(3) nurse satisfaction and patient safety can be adversely affected when nurses work excessive hours; and

(4) hospitals and nurses share a mutual interest in patient safety initiatives that create a healthy environment for nurses and appropriate care for patients.