As we have been studying up to take the EDAC exam and become certified, we have come across some interesting findings. With evidence-based design being so focused on the most current research and data, it is interesting that the study guide booklets haven't been recently updated. We are studying out of 2008 versions, that means we are studying facts and information that may now vary after a decade.
One of these findings, I needed to know more about was this 'nursing shortage'. In the book it informs us about the nursing shortage and what it is predicted to be like in ten years, so I had to find out for myself.
I found a couple of articles that widened my knowledge on the topic. The answer to the question is both yes and no. And here is why.
Lets start with the factors that brought on these projections:
The Baby Boomer generation is expected to require more medical care than before due to advances in the healthcare industry
High percentage of nurses reaching retirement
The ACA extending more coverage to more than 17 million therefore increasing the demand for nurses
What factors have brought down the number to now 130,000 by 2025?
RN's will increase from 2.7 million in 2013 to 3.3 million in 2030 due to high enrollment rates
Only 7 states are now expected to have a shortage but the nation as a whole will have a surplus of 340,000
Nurse migration/traveling nurses, RN's who are willing to move around the nation as opposed to traditionally staying in the locations they attended school
Why does the shortage continue?
Students are getting accepted into nursing schools due to low numbers of faculty, insufficient space for teaching, and budget cuts
Only 55% of RN's are prepared at the graduate and baccalaureate level
Certain states in remain on the shortage side, there is a scattered demand as opposed to a centralized one
Demand in rural areas
Image: Travel Nursing
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