Understanding the AcuityPlus Inpatient Methodology
AcuityPlus is built on the belief that accurate, real-time acuity measurement is foundational to safe, effective inpatient care. Central to this is our Inpatient methodology, which is featured in the video below. Before watching the video, review this concise explanation of the approach and its relevance to modern healthcare delivery.
Why Patient Acuity Must Be Measured Objectively
Inpatient care demands vary widely—from stable patients requiring minimal monitoring to critically ill individuals dependent on advanced life support. Clinical complexity is further compounded by factors such as cognitive or sensory impairments, communication barriers, psychosocial concerns, and family involvement. Staffing decisions must reflect this complexity.
Rather than relying on task-based scoring systems that assign arbitrary point values, AcuityPlus applies a nursing process–based framework using 28 standardized indicators. These indicators capture the full spectrum of patient needs and are applied consistently across units and facilities, allowing for reliable internal benchmarking and national comparisons via the AcuityPlus Database.
Fully Integrated and Automated
The AcuityPlus Inpatient methodology is designed for seamless implementation with minimal disruption to clinical workflows. It integrates directly with existing electronic medical record (EMR) and time and attendance systems to capture documentation already being completed by nursing staff. Acuity scores update automatically and frequently—often within the course of a single shift—supporting real-time, data-informed staffing adjustments.
Grounded in Research and Practice
Developed over the course of nearly five decades and informed by partnerships with leading healthcare organizations, the Inpatient methodology is continuously refined through an ongoing review of current nursing and medical research. Today, the model supports more than 50,000 patient classifications daily, helping hospitals reduce adverse events such as medication errors, patient falls, and CAUTIs, while also improving staff satisfaction and resource alignment.
The AcuityPlus Inpatient Methodology transforms how organizations understand patient needs and allocate clinical resources.
The video below offers a deeper look at how this evidence-based, technology-enabled approach can improve care quality, operational efficiency, and nurse engagement.
Watch the video to learn more about how acuity-based staffing can drive meaningful improvements across your organization.
