Patient Acuity: The severity of patient conditions often dictates the number of nurses required. Higher acuity levels demand more specialized and intensive care. Nurse-to-Patient Ratios: These ratios are often mandated by regulations or internal hospital policies to ensure that each nurse is responsible for a manageable number of patients. Shift Patterns: Different shifts (day, night, weekends) may have varying staffing needs due to changes in patient admissions and care requirements. Skill Mix: A balanced mix of experienced and novice nurses, along with specialized skills, ensures that the team can handle a wide range of patient needs effectively.