CNO survey says nursing investments lead to better hospital finances

Organizations investing in nurse safety, well-being and the work environment are better positioned for operational and financial success, a study found. Sponsored by the American Nurses Enterprise, the study surveyed CNEs and CNOs across 45 hospitals nationwide, representing 80,000 nurses. The survey asked them about their workforces, investment expenditures and hospital-operating margin. The authors found investments in safety and well-being, recruitment and retention and minimum wage adjustments were most strongly and positively associated with operating margin. However, hospitals generally tracked investment expenditures but not return on investment. The findings highlight the need for better availability and access to financial performance data for return-on-investment calculation, strategic planning and benchmarking, the study concludes. AONL offers a return-on-investment calculator for executives and nurse leaders. (American Nurses Enterprise news release, 3/26/26)