Depending on what you read and where you are located in the
country you may hear about the nursing shortage and at the same time the
surplus of new graduate nurses. That seems hard to understand and counter
intuitive at face value. According to the Bureau
of Labor Statistics’ Employment Projections 2010-2020 there will be 1.2
million job opening for nurses by 2020. Meanwhile, the current state of the
economy and the reluctance for baby-boomer to retire are all potential factors
creating a pseudo-sense that the shortage of nurses is not a true statement.
The California Institute for Nursing conducted
a survey in 2011 among new graduate nurses (N=1492) and concluded that 43% of
new graduate nurses were unable a suitable nursing jobs within 18 months of
graduation. Of those who could not find a nursing position, 42% stated they
could not because a bachelor’s degree was preferred.
So what is it, a shortage or a surplus? From my perspective I
would say that we have a national shortage and regional surplus. This is what I
would say to you if you aspire to be a registered nurse.
- Nursing is a wonderful profession where you will be able to make a difference in the live of others.
- Obtain at minimum a bachelors degree in nursing so you can be better prepared to meet the needs of your patients and a make a significant difference in patient outcomes.
- Be prepared to relocate where your profession needs you.
- You may very well have to work various shifts, weekends and holidays. Remember that this is a 24 hours, seven days per week operation.
- Upon graduation be sure to find a hospital that will offer you a residency program for your transition into practice. Do not settle for less.
- Identify a mentor that will help you transition into practice and grow professionally.
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