Our Nurses, Our Future

May 12 is International Nurses Day. The date is an important reminder to celebrate the immense contributions that nurses make to our society. Nurses are often referred to as the unsung heroes of the healthcare system, and that’s true for senior care settings as much as it is for hospitals. In elder care environments, nurses are responsible for creating and executing care plans, managing medication, monitoring patients with diseases, assisting with their daily needs, and more. 

However, as a profession, nursing is in serious trouble. The United States is in the midst of a critical nursing shortage and, given the country’s growing aging population, this will likely spell trouble in the coming years. It’s estimated that by 2030, seven states will have a significant deficit of nurses.

At FSL, We’re Committed To Fighting the Nursing Shortage

There are a lot of factors contributing to the nursing shortage, but burnout is at the top of the list. The lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with staff shortages and an already-stressful job, have pushed many nurses out of the field.  

It’s up to healthcare organizations and employers to make systemic changes that will incentivize existing nurses to stay in the field, as well as attract new students. In particular, experts recommend more flexible working arrangements, supportive workplace accommodations, and improving access to nursing programs (for students) and higher education (for existing nurses).