The Future of Nursing: Understanding the Growing Need for Registered Nurses
The demand for the nursing profession has increased in the past few years. Nursing has the greatest workforce of any healthcare profession, with a number that is almost four times of physicians.
Registered nurses (RNs) work in different setting for delivering healthcare services. They provide services in urban and rural locations. Consequently, these population also include women. People of color (POC), American Indians, individuals with disabilities etc.
The transition from hospital-based diploma programs to obtaining degrees from colleges and universities has brought about a transformation in nursing education. This shift has equipped Registered Nurses (RNs) with the necessary skills for more advanced and specialized roles. This ultimately expands their scope of practice and makes a positive impact. The introduction and subsequent growth of nurse practitioners (NPs) in the mid-1960s, alongside other advanced practice nursing positions signify a significant milestone in the field.
Nurses contribute to individuals, communities, and society in various capacities. They actively engage as researchers, conducting studies in clinical and health services domains. Additionally, nurses serve as executives and entrepreneurs, leading healthcare organizations. They also participate as board members in hospitals and health systems. Moreover, the nurses act as public health officials and educators and hold positions within federal state and local governments. With the help of these diverse roles nurses make valuable contributions that benefit both their patients and the wider society.
What is the Current Status of Nursing Job Outlook?
The shift of RNs has equipped with the necessary skills for more advanced and specialized roles. This expands their scope of practice and makes a positive impact. According to the U.S. bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook data from September 2021 the projected job growth for registered nurses is expected to rise. The rise is expected to be approximately 9% between 2020 and 2030.
This growth is expected to result in the increase of around 276,800 new jobs within the field. While deciding a career in nursing it is vital to assess whether it aligns with your personal interest and values. Additionally, if you have a genuine passion and dedication to improving the lives of individuals around you, it is essential to consider some of the aspects of pursuing career in nursing.
Moreover, it is also advisable that you make informed decision before investigating you time and financial resources into obtaining a nursing degree. You must evaluate the job prospects and employment opportunities upon completing your education.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for Registered Nurses (RNs) is highly favorable. Whereas these projections indicate a 7% increase in RN employment from 2019 to 2029, which establishes the profession as consistently desirable and reliable. The rapid rate at which the nursing occupation has surpasses all occupations is 4%. There were approx. 3,096,700 employed Registered Nurses as of 2019. By the end of the decade this number reach to 3,318,700.
Reasons for the Growth of Nursing Jobs
Understanding the reasons behind the positive job outlook for Registered Nursing is crucial in comprehending the ongoing and future desirability of RN careers.
- Nursing shortage
The healthcare market of the Unites States is witnessing staffing shortage of nurses which is a critical issue in the healthcare industry. The Registered Nurses (RNs) are also facing this significant shortage directly. According to survey conducted by AMN Healthcare in 2019 the percentage of nurses who believe that the shortage of nurse has worsened. The ratio ranges from 37% in 2015 to 52% in 2019. The nursing shortage crises indicates that the demand for nurses will exceed the available supply.
It is crucial to understand that a nationwide shortage does not imply nurse shortage. We recommend you gather information about the shortage and how it might impact your nursing career specifically.
- Economic well-being
The growth of economy has created a profusion of job opportunities because a healthy lifestyle is closely linked to the economic well-being. This has also generated the demand for the best nursing jobs. These opportunities are often accompanied by health insurance and increased disposable income for healthcare expenses. Consequently, the demand for healthcare professionals will continue to rise, as people have greater means to invest in their healthcare needs.
- Growth of senior population
The growth of baby boomer population those are especially born between 1946 and 1964 who requires the need for healthcare facilities. These population are the longest-living generations who require healthcare facilities.
- Nursing faculty shortage
There has been a shortage of nursing faculty which results in the growth of nursing jobs. A report by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), in the year 2019-2020approx. 80,000 qualified students were rejected for the nursing program.
This shortage of nursing facility combined with the increasing number of retiring baby boomer nurses has resulted in the substantial gap in the nursing workforce.
Moreover, the shortage of nursing graduates has also increased. This has also expanded the gap in the nursing workforce further contribute to the high demand for Registered Nurses (RNs). It is worth noting that the BLS estimates approximately 175,900 job openings for Registered Nurses each year. This high number of openings is attributed to the ongoing need to replace healthcare workers who transition to different nursing career or retire.
What is the Projected Growth for Nurse Practitioners
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) play a crucial role in managing patient care and delivering patient care. Additionally, this care includes delivering primary and specialized healthcare services in specific contexts. Similar to the registered nurses, NPs have experienced a consistent high demand for over 20 years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a remarkable increase in the demand for NPs. The ratio is up to 40% from the year 2021 to 2031.
This has surpassed the average growth rate of all professions. The increasing demand for qualified NPs is attributed to different factors. These include addressing the shortage of primary care providers followed by delivering cost-effectively and the overall drive towards improving healthcare efficiency. As a result, NPs are poised to remain highly sought-after professionals in the upcoming years.
As healthcare systems recognize the importance of proactive measures in maintaining overall health. There is an increased emphasis on preventive healthcare services. NPs play a crucial role in providing preventive care, promoting lifestyles and managing chromic conditions. The ageing population has increased, and they require nurses at some point in time. This has increased the demand for healthcare services in the United States. The NPs manage complex health and provide comprehensive care well-suited to your needs.
NPs provides cost-effective and high-quality care which makes them an asset in the team. The advanced training the NPs alleviate the strain on healthcare system. The scope of training for NPs makes them deliver effective care with efficient delivery to the ageing population.
Which State Has the Highest Need for Nurses?
Choosing a career path with a positive job outlook can significantly enhance your chances of securing employment. While there are no guarantee of immediate employment after graduation selecting a profession with a strong outlook like nursing acts in your favor. Mentioned below is the top five states that have the highest employment demand for registered nurses:
- California (274,650)
- Texas (207,810)
- New York (180,730)
- Florida (174,710)
- Pennsylvania (139,480)
Additionally, California is the first in the list to offer $48.92 hourly mean wage and $101,850 annual mean wage. Another state that is close to California is New York with a $33.84 hourly mean wage and an $80,830 annual mean wage. When opting for nursing job you can opt for these states who has the best employment opportunities for registered nurses.
Nursing Shortage Projection
As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) there is projected to be a 7% growth in demand for Registered Nurses (RNs) from 2019 to 2029. This resulted in an additional requirement of 221,900 nurses.
This increase attributed to several factors:
- Aging population: The aging "baby boom" generation is living longer and leading more active lives, leading to a greater demand for healthcare services as they grow older.
- Rise in chronic conditions: The prevalence of chronic conditions like diabetes is on the rise, necessitating increased nursing care. This is particularly significant as individuals with these conditions age.
- Emphasis on preventative care: Healthcare providers are placing a greater emphasis on proactive and preventive healthcare, focusing on educating individuals to make healthier choices and maintain their well-being in the long run.
- The nurses play a vital role in continuing this preventive work. This will also lead to additional responsibilities for nurses in the upcoming years.
It is anticipated that there will be fewer nurses available in the market to fulfill the increasing demand. However, this situation can be temporary. As per the New York Times, since 1919 the population growth in the United State is currently at its slowest rate. This results in a decrease in the number of nurses. Hence, there will eventually be fewer individual who require care. While a 7% increase in employment growth is promising, competition still exists in the nursing positions. Moreover, immediate and high salaries are not guaranteed for entry-level RNs. However, these statistics provide assurance that pursuing a nursing degree leads to excellent career prospects and job security.
Make Your Career in Nursing Jobs
Many of you definitely want to make a career in the healthcare industry, especially in the nursing category. Nurses play a crucial role in carrying out preventive work. This leads to additional responsibilities for the nurses in the future. With time this approach reduces the number of individuals who require medical care. The nurses employed are expected to experience a decline due to disparity.
Here are some of the tips to navigate your career and find the best nursing jobs:
- Obtain valuable practical knowledge
Seize every chance to engage in healthcare-related work. It is possible to gain hands-on experience even before obtaining nursing credentials. Any form of experience can contribute to enhancing your resume and progressing in the nursing profession.
For instance, consider volunteering at a hospital and working closely with a nurse. By doing so, you can observe and learn the various tasks they perform, thereby developing a comprehensive comprehension of delivering patient care.
- Establish a strong professional circle
As a nurse, it is crucial to maintain connections with your peers, professors, and previous employers. These individuals can assist you in finding new job opportunities as they may think of you when they come across available positions. Moreover, they can provide references that highlight your work ethic and personal qualities, differentiating you from other candidates.
If you're unsure how to start building your professional network, consider joining a nursing organization dedicated to fostering professional growth. These organizations often organize regular events that facilitate networking among nurses. Attending seminars and workshops hosted by these organizations can also contribute to expanding your knowledge and expertise in the nursing field.
- Explore specialized areas
Within the nursing profession, there are numerous opportunities for specialization. Perhaps the next progression in your career is to concentrate on a specific area that captures your interest? A profusion of specialties may demand specific qualifications, experience, or level of education. However, you shouldn't feel discouraged because pursuing a career in the nursing area is extremely possible. Take the time to research different specialties and select one that aligns well with your skills and interest.
A Fulfilling and Promising Career in Healthcare Support Staffing
A promising career in nursing becomes easy when you contact a healthcare staffing agency. These recruitment firms assist you in financial stability and job satisfaction. The registered nurse field offers excellent job prospects with a steady growth rate that surpasses the national average for all occupations. Surveys indicate that a significant majority of registered nurses, that is approximately 81%, are satisfied with their chose career. Moreover, the staffing agencies help registered nurses to get competitive salaries.
What sets nursing apart is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day by helping people and saving lives. While the journey to secure your dream job may be a challenging one but maintaining a positive attitude and obtaining the right education and choosing the right recruitment firm. Embrace this incredible profession that holds promising prospects for your future.
