Why is there a nursing staff shortage in 2020?

There are several challenges facing the healthcare system, but the one getting the most attention lately is the nursing shortage in 2020 in the US. Patient care demands grow, with fewer people than ever to meet the need. For those who are starting their careers or changing to a new one, consider becoming a nurse practitioner or RN. It has high job security given the growing demand for nurses. Let’s look further at the issue. Finding answers for the nursing staff shortage and quality of care and quality of care is essential.

The ideal time for healthcare education

While traditional degree choices will help you enter a great career with financial stability, entering nursing school is one field of study that shows a lot of promise. Many hospitals, clinics, and care settings are looking for qualified workers.

As a result, there has been a big increase in the pay. Plus, there are other benefits for nurses.

The demand also means you likely won’t have to wait long after graduation to get a job. The high competition among desperate healthcare facilities has led to a rise in tuition reimbursement benefits too. This is to attract potential talent early and hold them after graduation. Having a job to begin your nursing career as soon as you graduate brings peace of mind.

Why is there a nursing staff shortage? 4 reasons

This isn’t one single thing to blame for the shortage of nurses. Instead, there are several things that are creating a sad situation. The four main reasons are:

1. Baby Boomers increasing the demand for nurses

The Baby Boomers make up the largest generation in the country. But these individuals are nearing retirement. As more Baby Boomer nurses continue to retire but without a corresponding number of entrants into the field, positions are left unfilled. The aging concerns of the Baby Boomers are putting more demand on the healthcare system as well.

2. Poor retention leads to a nursing staff shortage

With the shortage of nurses, many individuals feel the pressure of long hours and stressful work conditions. As a result, many leave for other professions.

They want less stress. For example, 7 careers in public health are also getting more attention.

3. Medical advancements

The amazing advancements made in medicine have raised the mortality rate. While this has given aging adults more time with family and friends, they require long-term care needs that the current workforce cannot address. The changing technology also requires nurses trained in the new areas of medicine or treatments and who can teach it to others.

4. Resource shortages

Baby Boomer nurses are going into retirement. So too are the teaching facility of nursing programs across the nation.

Plus, staffing issues limit how many individuals can enter a nursing program. That lowers opportunities to get enough nurses into the field to address the shortage.

Result of the 2020 nursing shortage

Patients are not going to be the only ones hurting because of the shortage. But, they may suffer the most. There is great concern in the healthcare community over the predictions of decreased quality of care. Why? Nurses struggle to manage high caseloads and nurse-to-patient ratios.

Statistics show an increased likelihood of patient mortality when they only have one nurse. Loved ones will also pay the price for the shortage. Nurses themselves will struggle as they navigate more stressful working conditions. The poor work/life balance, longer hours, and emotional demands of the job can lead to burnout. This would make already low numbers even worse.

Final thoughts as you consider careers

Given the demand for nurses, now is a great time to consider nursing as a career. It fills the need for high-quality care and you can help make someone’s life healthier and happier.

I hope you appreciate all that nurses do too. Thanks for reading here to understand more about the nursing staff shortage and quality of care.