Maine nurses report unsafe staffing levels impacting patient care

MAINE, USA — Nurses at two of Maine’s largest hospitals are speaking out, saying staffing shortages are making it nearly impossible to deliver quality care—and it’s taking a toll on both patients and providers.

At a press conference held Tuesday, nurses from Maine Medical Center in Portland and Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor shared firsthand accounts of what they describe as unsafe conditions inside their hospitals. Many said they’re asked to care for five or more patients per shift, a number far above what they believe is safe.

“Nurses are rushing from one room to the next, frantically juggling care for too many patients,” one nurse said.

These healthcare professionals say the math is simple: more patients per nurse means less time for each—leading to mistakes, overlooked care, and patients becoming sicker. Some nurses described feeling fearful while on the job, worried that they’re missing critical care steps simply because they’re stretched too thin.

The Maine State Nurses Association is renewing its push for a law that would mandate nurse-to-patient ratios statewide. A similar bill failed in the legislature last year, but supporters say the need has only grown more urgent.

“As nurses, we know our patients can and should have the best care possible—and we will not be deterred,” Kelli Brennan, a longtime nurse at Maine Med, said.

They argued that proper staffing would not only improve patient care but also reduce nurse burnout, lower turnover, and save hospitals money in the long run.

“If it’s hard for me to handle five patients, and I’ve been doing this for years. Our new grads are taking on even more—and they’re leaving,” Brennan said.

Hospital leaders, however, maintained that staffing decisions should remain in the hands of hospital management, not lawmakers.

Faye Weir, senior director of Patient Care Services at Maine Medical Center and a former nurse herself, said flexibility is key because patient needs can vary widely.

“Every patient is different. Every shift is different,” she said. “It’s about collaboration and team support.”

Weir warns that mandatory ratios could force hospitals to turn patients away or create financial strain, especially in rural or already understaffed facilities.

Northern Light Health, which operates Eastern Maine Medical Center, sent a statement in response, which said they follow national standards through the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators to ensure staffing meets industry benchmarks.

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