4. Research examining the effect of RN qualifications on hospital costs was limited. Only one study determined that a greater number of experienced RNs led to reduced costs (Bloom et al., 1997). One difficulty in interpreting this study was that secondary data used for analysis were collected in 1982. These data may not reflect current circumstances. Thus, replication of this study is warranted.
5. While there is evidence to support the relationship between RN experience, RN education, patient length of stay, and the cost of care, there are no studies linking these variables to patient LOS. Thus, further research to confirm the relationship between RN qualifications and LOS is needed to conclude whether the competency of RNs is the most important criteria for achieving cost-effective patient care in hospitals.