How will the nursing shortage affect new recruits to the profession?
Actually, there has never been a better time to become a nurse. Salaries are going up and working conditions are improving in an effort to appeal to new students and retain working RNs in the profession. Nurses are gaining more independence on the job, which enables them to use the full capacity of their education and expertise. Job security is also extremely high, given the fact that the projected supply of RNs will not come close to meeting the demand. The media spotlight on the nursing shortage has also helped to showcase the many roles available within the profession. Although there is a great demand for nurses to provide direct care, they are also needed as researchers, health care administrators, policy analysts, and nurse executives. The baccalaureate-prepared nurse enjoys the greatest opportunity for career advancement, as well as the ability to move seamlessly into upper level roles requiring a master’s degree or doctorate. One of the greatest areas of need is for nursing scho
