5 Ways to Reverse the Nursing Shortage

5 Ways to Reverse the Nursing Shortage

The term "critical" is often used to describe healthcare settings, and unfortunately, it applies directly to the ongoing nursing shortage in the United States. This shortage has become a major concern across the healthcare industry, sounding an alarm for action. Healthcare organizations must develop strategic plans to address and reverse this shortage. The U.S. has experienced a deficit of skilled nurses for medical offices, hospitals, and home healthcare services since the 1930s. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' projections from 2023 to 2033, the demand for Registered Nurses (RNs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) is notably high, with anticipated job growth rates of 7% and 45%, respectively. Despite this, many healthcare employers continue to struggle with unfilled nursing positions. While sign-on bonuses and incentives have become a common approach to attracting nurses, these tactics offer only a short-term solution.

Contributing Factors to the Nursing Shortage

Several key factors contribute to the nursing shortage, including an aging workforce. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the average age of nurses is 50, and many are opting for early retirement due to the physical and mental toll of the profession. An insufficient influx of new nurses to replace retiring staff is also a significant issue. Additionally, the aging population—currently with an average life expectancy of 78.7 years—has amplified the demand for healthcare professionals. Nurse burnout, resulting from high levels of stress, overwork, and emotional exhaustion, further exacerbates the shortage.

Five Effective Strategies to Combat the Nursing Shortage

Recruiting top nursing talent has become increasingly competitive. Healthcare employers must adopt innovative strategies beyond the typical perks like tuition reimbursement and retention bonuses. Here are five effective strategies to help reverse the nursing shortage:

1. Adopt a Millennial Mindset
   Millennials prioritize career growth and access to resources that help them advance in their professions. They are more interested in opportunities that allow them to make a meaningful difference, and healthcare roles, particularly in nursing, align with this motivation. Employers who understand these values can appeal to millennials and other age groups pursuing nursing careers. Creating clear pathways for career advancement and offering leadership training can attract this demographic.
2. Enhance Benefits
   Offering comprehensive benefits beyond standard healthcare packages is crucial in attracting and retaining nurses. In addition to paid leave and health insurance, consider providing student loan forgiveness for those pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing. Incorporating amenities like on-site fitness centers, mental health resources, and flexible scheduling options can further enhance job satisfaction.
3. Implement Residency Programs
   With a growing number of nurses obtaining Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees, residency programs are an essential means for transitioning them from academic settings into practical experience. Hospitals are particularly well-positioned to offer these programs, which should include mentoring and robust support systems to ensure new nurses succeed. These programs offer both professional growth and hands-on experience, making the transition smoother for new graduates.
4. Eliminate Workplace Toxicity
   Negative behaviors from colleagues or supervisors often lead nurses to leave the profession. It's crucial for healthcare employers to foster a positive work environment by actively working to eliminate workplace toxicity. This can include establishing mechanisms for reporting bullying, harassment, or discrimination and ensuring senior staff are held accountable for maintaining a supportive and professional atmosphere.
5. Utilize Recruiters and Technology
   Large healthcare employers often rely on internal HR departments for recruitment, but these departments are frequently tasked with additional responsibilities, reducing their capacity to focus solely on nursing recruitment. By hiring specialized nurse recruiters or leveraging technology such as GoodWork's marketplace platform, healthcare organizations can streamline their recruitment efforts. Utilizing technology and specialized services helps employers find qualified candidates faster and more efficiently.

The success of nursing recruitment hinges on addressing the core needs of nursing candidates. Offering a supportive work environment, fostering a sense of community, and providing ample opportunities for career growth and development are key to attracting and retaining nursing talent. Healthcare organizations must rethink their approach and implement these strategies to effectively combat the nursing shortage.

If you're interested in finding nursing job opportunities, GoodWork offers a platform that connects healthcare employers and talented professionals.