DiversityNursing Blog

Healthcare organizations and hospitals are making significant investments in initiatives focused on promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in order to cultivate a dynamic and talented workforce for the future.

Johnson & Johnson has put its support behind two pilot programs aimed at setting Nurses up for success on campus and in healthcare settings.

The first program is a year-long leadership initiative developed by the National League for Nursing (NLN), an organization whose mission is to promote an inclusive nursing workforce and support nursing education. The NLN leadership program is designed to help students of color with a smooth transition from their last year of school to their first clinical job.

The second initiative is led by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), which represents more than 865 nursing schools nationwide. The AACN has developed a detailed online survey for student nurses to measure their sense of belonging in classrooms. The goal is to use the survey results to foster a more inclusive and encouraging culture on campuses.

Mass General Brigham and UMass Boston’s Manning College of Nursing and Health Sciences announced an expanded collaboration to enhance the college’s Clinical Leadership Collaborative for Diversity in Nursing program.

With a $20 million investment — $10 million from Mass General Brigham and $10 million from UMass Boston — the goal is to recruit and retain Nursing students from underrepresented communities as they start their clinical rotations. 

“Nurses are fundamental to the delivery of high-quality, compassionate healthcare to our patients,” said Dr. Anne Klibanski, president and CEO of Mass General Brigham. “There is an immense need to increase the pipeline of trained Nurses, with a concerted focus on increasing diversity among our trainees. This initiative is a powerful example of how collaboration can drive change to overcome monumental challenges in a meaningful way.” 

The Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth and University Hospitals officially signed the Impact Workforce Commitment with the overall goal to find new opportunities, maximize the hiring process and train and retain the area's diverse talent.

"Through this partnership with the Healthcare Anchor Network, we literally have committed to walk the talk," said Alan Nevel, Senior Vice President Chief Equity and Community Impact Officer for Metro Health System.

The health system is creating learn-and-earn programs to amplify and support diversity, as well as hosting community health and job fairs year-round.

The United Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of UnitedHealth Group, will invest $100 million over the next decade to drive a more diverse healthcare workforce.

Investing in a diverse workforce has numerous benefits and advantages such as:

Better patient care and outcomes: Diverse healthcare teams can provide more comprehensive and culturally competent care to patients from various backgrounds. When healthcare professionals understand the unique needs and perspectives of their patient populations, they can deliver more effective and personalized treatments, leading to better health outcomes.

“When you’re a Nurse with a diverse background, you are likely to bring a differentiated perspective to patient care," explains Lynda Benton, Senior Director of Global Community Impact Strategic Initiatives of Johnson & Johnson Nursing. "You may have broader and deeper insights into patient beliefs, attitudes, ethnicities and perceptions. When patients see Nurses and other members of the medical team who look like them, it can remove barriers, open up conversations and ultimately improve access to quality care."

Enhanced patient satisfaction: Patients feel more comfortable and valued when they see diversity represented in their healthcare providers. Feeling understood and respected by their healthcare team contributes to higher patient satisfaction and better patient-provider communication.

Reducing health disparities: In many healthcare systems, certain minority groups experience disparities in access to care, treatment options, and health outcomes. By promoting diversity and inclusion, hospitals aim to address these disparities and provide equitable care to all patients.

Attracting and retaining talent: High turnover rates are prevalent in this industry, attributed not only to the demanding workload but also the treatment professionals experience. 

A Rutgers School of Nursing study found 63% of Nurses have experienced racism on the job. More than three-fourths of Black Nurses said racism negatively impacts their professional well-being. 

People are more likely to join and stay in an inclusive organization where they feel accepted, supported, valued, and have equal opportunities for growth and advancement.

Fostering innovation and creativity: A diverse workforce brings together individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, creating a mix of ideas and insights. This diversity of thought can foster a culture of innovation and creativity within healthcare settings, leading to more effective problem-solving and decision-making.

When healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds collaborate, they bring forth a wide range of perspectives and approaches to address complex healthcare challenges. They can draw upon their unique experiences and knowledge to develop innovative strategies and solutions that may not have been considered otherwise.

Reputation and community trust: Healthcare organizations that prioritize diversity and inclusion can build a positive reputation in their communities. Patients and community members are more likely to trust and support organizations that demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity.

Cultural competence and language access: A diverse workforce can help bridge language and cultural barriers between patients and providers. This can improve communication and ensure that patients receive the information and care they need, regardless of their language or cultural background.

Economic benefits: Diverse and inclusive healthcare organizations have been associated with improved financial performance. Studies have shown that companies and institutions with diverse leadership teams tend to outperform their peers financially.

From a health care perspective, lack of equity translates to higher costs. “When we exclude particular populations, decrease access, increase barriers, or provide subpar care, then at the end of the day, those people are going to utilize health care dollars at a much higher rate,” says Mary Fleming, MD, President of the nonprofit Reede Scholars, Inc. and Program Director of the Leadership Development to Advance Equity in Health Care program at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Employee morale and productivity: Inclusive environments not only foster higher employee morale and satisfaction but also have a direct impact on the overall productivity and success of an organization. 

When employees feel supported and included, they are more likely to develop a sense of loyalty towards the organization. They become advocates for the company's mission and values, which can positively impact employee retention and reduce turnover rates.

Additionally, inclusive environments promote effective communication and collaboration among team members. When employees feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions, it leads to open and honest discussions. This fosters a culture of trust and transparency, enabling teams to work together more efficiently and effectively towards shared objectives.

Furthermore, inclusivity promotes diversity in leadership roles. Employees see individuals from diverse backgrounds in positions of authority, and become inspired and motivated to reach their full potential. This representation not only boosts employee morale but also helps to break down barriers and biases, leading to a more inclusive and equitable workplace for everyone.

Compliance and legal requirements: Many countries have laws and regulations that promote diversity and equal opportunity in the workplace. Hospitals and health systems invest in D&I to comply with these legal requirements and create a safe and inclusive environment for their employees.

Overall, investing in DEI is not just a social responsibility but also a strategic decision that can lead to improved patient care, better employee satisfaction, and enhanced organizational performance for health systems and hospitals.

Disability affects approximate 61 million, or nearly 1 in 4 (26%) of people in the United States. Including people with disabilities in everyday activities and creating accessible environments and equitable opportunities that support them in holding roles similar to their peers who do not have a disability is disability inclusion.

Disability inclusion entails identifying barriers that potentially impact people with disabilities to independently live and be fully engaged in their communities. Everyone can make a difference and play a part in addressing those barriers.

Nurses play a crucial role in creating more inclusive health care and providing high-quality care. Caring for disabled patients requires a compassionate and patient-centered approach.

Here are some best practices for Nurses to consider when caring for disabled patients:

Accessibility: Ensure that the environment is accessible and accommodates the needs of disabled patients. This includes providing ramps, handrails, and wide doorways for those with mobility impairments. Make sure medical equipment is accessible and that communication aids, such as hearing devices or visual aids, are readily available. Braille signs provide crucial information related to your medical facility for people with visual impairments, such as the location of your restrooms, exits, and more.

Develop a Personal Connection: Building a personal connection with your patients is essential for establishing trust and rapport. Take the time to get to know them as individuals, ask about their interests, hobbies, and goals. This not only helps create a positive and supportive environment but also enables Nurses to provide care that is tailored to their unique needs and preferences.

Foster Effective Communication: Effective communication is vital when caring for disabled patients. It is important to understand and respect their preferred method of communication, whether it is verbal, non-verbal, or through assistive devices. Take the time to listen attentively, use clear and simple language, and allow them sufficient time to express themselves. If needed, collaborate with speech therapists or communication specialists to enhance communication capabilities.

Promote Independence and Autonomy: Patients with disabilities often face challenges in performing daily activities. As a Nurse, it is important to promote independence and autonomy by encouraging patients to participate in their care and decision-making processes. Involve them in setting goals, planning their care, and making choices whenever possible. This fosters a sense of empowerment and enhances their overall well-being.

Address Physical and Emotional Needs: Disabled patients may experience physical and emotional challenges due to their condition. It is crucial for Nurses to address both aspects of their well-being. This includes providing appropriate pain management strategies, managing symptoms effectively, and promoting comfort and mobility. Additionally, Nurses should offer emotional support by actively listening, showing empathy, and providing resources for counseling or therapy if needed.

Collaborate with a Multidisciplinary Team: Caring for disabled patients often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Nurses should collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Social Workers, and Psychologists, to provide comprehensive care. By working together, healthcare professionals can develop a holistic care plan that addresses the various aspects of a patient's well-being.

Stay Updated with Best Practices: The field of healthcare is constantly evolving, and it is essential for Nurses to stay updated with the latest best practices and evidence-based research. Continuous learning and professional development help Nurses enhance their knowledge and skills in caring for disabled patients. Attend workshops, conferences, and training sessions focused on disability care to stay informed about new techniques, technologies, and approaches.

Advocacy: Nurses can act as patient advocates by helping patients make informed or ethical decisions, translate medical terminology into common language, and navigate complex medical systems. Often, you are the closest healthcare provider to your patient. You can help protect their rights, health, and safety by upholding patient equality, making patients a priority, and being a reliable resource.

In conclusion, caring for disabled patients requires a compassionate and patient-centered approach. By implementing these best practices, Nurses can provide optimal care, promote independence, and improve overall well-being. Remember, each patient is unique, and providing person-centered care requires flexibility, empathy, and a willingness to adapt your approach to meet individual needs.

To truly excel in a Nurse leadership role, it takes a unique blend of qualities and attributes that empower Nurses to guide their teams and achieve positive patient outcomes.

Here are some key traits and characteristics commonly associated with successful leadership:

Strong Communication Skills: Effective Nurse leaders possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. They can clearly articulate their expectations, actively listen to others, and provide constructive feedback. Clear communication helps foster collaboration, resolve conflicts, and ensure the delivery of quality care.

Susan Adams, an Associate Professor at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis said, “Communication is not you telling people your thoughts or ideas. The most powerful part of communication is being a good, active listener. You must listen to understand the perspective and be able to verbally reflect that back. Once a person is heard, you’ve established a foundation to move forward.”

Integrity and Ethics: Nurse leaders must demonstrate high levels of integrity and ethical conduct. They serve as role models for their teams and maintain professional standards in their practice. Acting with honesty, trustworthiness, and ethical decision-making builds a culture of trust and respect.

Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence involves being aware of and managing one's emotions while understanding and empathizing with others. Nurse leaders with high emotional intelligence can effectively navigate complex situations, display empathy towards patients and staff, and build strong interpersonal relationships.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Successful leaders possess strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They can analyze complex situations, make informed decisions, and develop innovative solutions. This trait allows them to navigate challenges effectively and guide their teams towards optimal patient outcomes.

Adaptability and Flexibility: In the dynamic healthcare environment, Nurse leaders need to be adaptable and flexible. They must be open to change, able to adjust their strategies as needed, and embrace new technologies and practices. Adaptability enables them to respond to emerging healthcare trends and effectively lead their teams through transitions.

Visionary Leadership: Nurse leaders with a clear vision inspire and motivate their teams. They possess the ability to envision the future of healthcare, set goals, and communicate a compelling vision to their staff. By sharing their vision and aligning the team's efforts, leaders can foster innovation and achieve organizational success.

Collaboration and Team Building: Successful Nurse leaders prioritize collaboration and team building. They value the input and expertise of their team members and create an environment that encourages open communication, teamwork, and collaboration. Leaders who foster a sense of belonging and trust among their staff create a supportive and productive work culture.

Continuous Learning: Leaders who prioritize continuous learning contribute to their own professional growth and the development of their teams. They stay updated with current research, evidence-based practices, and industry advancements. By embracing lifelong learning, they can provide evidence-based care and guide their teams towards excellence.

Resilience: Often, Nurse leaders encounter various challenges and obstacles. Resilience allows them to bounce back from setbacks, overcome adversity, and maintain a positive outlook. They inspire resilience in their teams, ensuring the provision of quality care even in challenging circumstances.

According to the University of Cincinnati, research shows effective Nurse leaders as teachers, mentors, and coaches, that foster resilience in their team members in 7 distinct ways. Those include:

• Facilitating social connections
• Promoting positivity
• Capitalizing on strengths
• Nurturing growth
• Encouraging self-care
• Fostering mindfulness practices
• Conveying altruism

Empowerment and Mentorship: Leaders empower their team members and promote their professional growth. They provide guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement. By investing in their staff's development, they create a culture of empowerment and foster a sense of job satisfaction.

While these traits and characteristics are important for successful Nurse leadership, it's important to note that leadership skills can be developed and enhanced over time with experience, education, and self-reflection.

Sexual harassment is a prevalent issue that can have far-reaching consequences. It can occur in any workplace, regardless of industry or job title. Nursing, unfortunately, is not immune to this problem.

Nurses are often in vulnerable positions, working long hours, and caring for patients who may be in distress. This can create an environment where sexual harassment can occur. It is essential to recognize that sexual harassment is not a trivial matter and can have serious consequences for everyone involved.

Sexual harassment in Nursing can take many forms that can be difficult to identify and address. Nurses may be subjected to unwanted sexual advances, such as propositions for sex or dates, or explicit comments about their physical appearance or sexual preferences. Inappropriate touching or gestures can also occur, such as unwanted hugging or kissing, or physical contact that is intended to be sexual in nature. Sexual harassment can also manifest through comments or jokes that are sexual in nature, causing Nurses to feel disrespected, belittled, and dehumanized.

Experiencing this harassment can have profound and long-lasting effects on Nurses, including emotional distress, physical symptoms like headaches and sleep disturbances, decreased job satisfaction and productivity, and even anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Furthermore, sexual harassment can create a hostile work environment resulting in low morale, increased turnover rates, and decreased patient satisfaction. It can also have a negative impact on the quality of care provided by Nurses, as they may be distracted or unable to focus on their work due to the harassment.

Preventing sexual harassment requires a commitment from Nurses, Nurse leaders, and healthcare organizations. Nurses must be aware of their rights and responsibilities regarding sexual harassment and report any incidents of harassment to their supervisor or human resources department. Nurse leaders and healthcare organizations should establish and enforce policies that prohibit sexual harassment and provide education and training on preventing and addressing it.

It is also important to create a culture of respect and professionalism that promotes zero tolerance for sexual harassment. This includes encouraging open communication, respecting boundaries, and providing support for Nurses who have experienced harassment.

If you're a Nurse who has been sexually assaulted, here are some steps you can consider taking:

Ensure your safety: If you're in immediate danger, call emergency services or the local police right away. Find a safe place where you feel secure.

Seek medical attention: It's important to prioritize your physical well-being. Go to the nearest hospital or clinic to receive a medical examination. This will help document any injuries, collect evidence, and assess your overall health.

Notify your workplace: Inform your supervisor or human resources department about the incident. They can guide you through the internal procedures and provide assistance or accommodations if needed.

Preserve evidence: Try to avoid showering, changing clothes, or altering the scene of the assault, as these actions could impact the collection of evidence. If possible, keep the clothes you were wearing during the incident in a paper bag to preserve any potential evidence.

Reach out to someone you trust: Speak with someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, colleague, or mental health professional about the assault. They can provide emotional support and help you through the process.

Report the assault: Contact the appropriate authorities, such as the police or hospital security, to report the assault. They will guide you through the legal process and investigate the incident. Be prepared to provide them with a detailed account of what happened.

Consult a Counselor or Therapist: Consider seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist who specializes in trauma or sexual assault. They can assist you in processing your emotions, providing coping strategies, and supporting your healing journey.

Familiarize yourself with support resources: Research local support organizations or hotlines that specifically deal with sexual assault cases. These organizations can offer counseling, legal advice, and additional resources to aid your recovery.

Seek legal advice: Contact a lawyer who specializes in sexual assault cases. They can provide guidance on your rights, legal options, and potential actions you can take against the perpetrator.

Take care of yourself: Self-care is crucial during this challenging time. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being by getting enough rest, eating nutritious food, engaging in activities you enjoy, and reaching out to supportive individuals.

It is important to keep in mind that these steps are just general recommendations, and seeking guidance from professionals who can tailor their advice to your unique situation is crucial.

Men's Health Month is an important observance aimed at raising awareness about the health issues affecting men and encouraging them to take proactive steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

Below are general statistics and facts related to men's health. 

Life Expectancy: On average, men have a shorter life expectancy compared to women. In the United States, the life expectancy for men is around 73 years, compared with women’s, which is about 79, according to CDC data.

Leading Causes of Death: The leading causes of death among men vary by age group. However, the common causes include heart disease, cancer (particularly lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer), accidents, chronic lower respiratory diseases, stroke, and diabetes.

Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. It typically affects older men, with the risk increasing with age. Regular screening and early detection are crucial for improving outcomes.

Testicular Cancer: Testicular cancer primarily affects younger men, usually between the ages of 15 and 35. Early detection and treatment have high success rates. Men are encouraged to perform regular self-examinations to check for any unusual lumps or changes.

Mental Health: Men often face unique challenges regarding mental health. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and suicide rates are higher among men. However, societal stigmas and reluctance to seek help often prevent men from seeking support and treatment.

Heart Disease: Heart disease is a significant concern for men. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, and family history. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk.

Obesity and Physical Activity: Obesity rates among men are a growing concern. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular physical activity and a balanced diet can reduce the risk of numerous health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking remains a major health risk for men. It increases the likelihood of developing various cancers, heart disease, respiratory conditions, and other health problems. Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco use is crucial for better overall health.

Sexual Health: Men's sexual health encompasses various aspects, including erectile dysfunction, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and reproductive health. Regular check-ups, safe practices, and open communication with healthcare providers are essential.

Access to Healthcare: Men often face barriers to accessing healthcare, such as a reluctance to seek medical attention, lack of awareness, and limited preventive care. Regular check-ups, health screenings, and early interventions can significantly improve health outcomes.

These statistics and facts can change over time so it's best to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and information regarding your health.

Patient education is a crucial aspect of the Nursing practice, because it empowers patients to take an active role in their own healthcare. Nurses serve as educators, providing patients and their families with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Patient education provides a better understanding of their health conditions, treatment options, and self-care strategies, leading to better health outcomes.

“The more clearly a disease is understood, the more likely it is that an individual will be comfortable with their care and adhere to necessary regimens,” according to research published in Seminars in Oncology Nursing. 

Here are some key points regarding the role of Nurses in patient education and health promotion:

Assess Learning Needs

Nurses assess the patient's learning needs by considering factors such as their health literacy, cultural background, language proficiency, and individual preferences. This assessment helps Nurses tailor educational interventions to meet the patient's specific needs.

Provide Clear and Accessible Information

Healthcare professionals simplify medical information and relay it in a clear and understandable manner. They use plain language and avoid medical jargon to ensure patients can comprehend and retain the information provided.

Educational resources can be customized and printed out for patients with the touch of a button. Make sure the patient’s individualized needs are addressed. Don't simply hand the patient a stack of papers to read, review them with patients to ensure they understand the instructions and answer questions that arise.

Utilize Various Teaching Methods

There are a variety of teaching methods Nurses can use, such as verbal explanations, visual aids, written materials, videos, interactive computer programs, and demonstrations. Nurses adapt their teaching strategies to accommodate different learning styles for better patient understanding.

Providing education using different methods reinforces teaching. Patients have different learning styles so ask if your patient learns best by watching a DVD or by reading. A hands on approach where the patient gets to perform a procedure with your guidance is often the best method.

Teach Self-Management Skills

Self-management skills are taught to patients so they can effectively manage their health conditions. This includes instruction on how to administer medication, wound care, monitoring symptoms, lifestyle changes, and recognizing signs of complications.

Work With Family Members

Family members play important roles in the care of patients including contribution to decision-making, assisting the health-care team in providing care, improving patient safety, and assisting in home care. When Nurses include family members in patient teaching, it improves the chances that  instructions will be followed. 

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

Nurses play a major role in promoting healthy behaviors and preventing diseases. They educate patients on topics such as nutrition, physical activity, tobacco cessation, stress management, and immunizations, empowering them to make positive lifestyle choices.

Support Shared Decision-Making

Shared decision making (SDM) is when Nurses and patients actively work together to make informed decisions about healthcare options.

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has an SDM model called SHARE. This model is designed to examine and analyze healthcare option advantages, disadvantages, and potential risks. The options are identified via meaningful patient-Nurse dialogue that allows the patient to openly express what’s most important to them. The model comprises this five-step process:

Seek your patient’s participation.
Help your patient explore and compare treatment options.
Assess your patient’s values and preferences.
Reach a decision with your patient.
Evaluate your patient’s decision.

Assess Learning Outcomes

It is important to evaluate the effectiveness of the patient's education by assessing their understanding, skills, and confidence in managing their health thus far. This assessment helps identify areas that may need further explanation or modification.

Collaborate with Interdisciplinary Team

Nurses collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as Physicians, Pharmacists, Dietitians, and Physical Therapists, to provide comprehensive patient education. This multidisciplinary approach ensures patients receive consistent and coordinated information.

By actively engaging in patient education and health promotion, Nurses empower patients to make informed decisions, actively participate in their care, and ultimately improve their overall health outcomes.

Nurse gig shifts refer to temporary or short-term Nursing assignments that are often offered through staffing agencies or online apps. These shifts can range in length from a few hours to several weeks or months and are often taken by Nurses who are looking for flexible work arrangements or who want to supplement their income.

Gig shifts can be beneficial for both Nurses and healthcare facilities. Nurses who work gig shifts have the flexibility to choose when and where they work, and they can often earn a higher hourly rate than they would in a traditional full-time position. Healthcare facilities can use gig shifts to fill staffing gaps or to cover unexpected absences, ensuring that patient care is not compromised.

According to The Wall Street Journal, embracing gig apps is one way hospitals and health systems are looking to provide flexibility and fill vacancies. This includes Providence Health.

Providence added gig Nurses last year and has filled 13,000 shifts for Nurses and other medical roles, Mark Smith, who oversees workforce analysis, staffing and optimization for the organization, told The Wall Street Journal. He also told the publication the health system plans to expand gig work from 12 hospitals and Nursing homes to 19.

“We make sure the Nurses who work through the app are thoroughly vetted and have the licenses and certifications required to work on the Nursing unit they’re receiving training to work on, just like our own caregivers do,” Smith explained. “At Providence, we’ve found that Nurses taking assignments through the app fill six shifts per month.”

Among the apps hospitals are adopting are ShiftKey, which lets Nurses bid for shifts, and CareRev, which lets hospitals raise and lower their rates for different shifts. 

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to working gig shifts. These can include inconsistent work schedules, lack of benefits, and a lack of job security. Nurses who work gig shifts may also miss out on opportunities for professional development and career advancement that are more readily available in traditional full-time positions.

Overall, whether or not you should pursue gig shifts depends on your personal goals and priorities. It's important to carefully consider the pros and cons of gig work as well as research potential employers and platforms before accepting any assignments.

There is a growing need for more Nurse Educators to address the current shortage of Nurses and ensure the future generations of Nurses are well-trained and prepared to provide quality care.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Employment Projections 2021-2031, the Registered Nursing (RN) workforce is expected to grow by 6% over the next decade. The RN workforce is expected to grow from 3.1 million in 2021 to 3.3 million in 2031, an increase of 195,400 Nurses. The Bureau also projects 203,200 openings for RNs each year through 2031 when Nurse retirements and workforce exits are factored into the number of Nurses needed in the U.S.
 
The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) workforce, including Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, and Nurse Midwives, is expected to grow much faster than average for all occupation, by 40% from 2021 through 2031, according to the BLS’ Occupational Outlook Handbook. Approximately 30,200 new APRNs, which are prepared in master’s and doctoral programs, will be needed each year through 2031 to meet the rising demand for care.

Nurse Educators play a vital role in the education and training of Nursing students and are responsible for developing and delivering curriculum, designing and implementing clinical experiences, and evaluating student progress.

The shortage of Nurse Educators at Nursing schools across the country are limiting student capacity at a time when the need for Nurses continues to grow.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), budget constraints, an aging faculty, and increasing job competition from clinical sites have contributed to this crisis.

However, increasing the number of Nurse Educators is critical to addressing the Nursing shortage and ensuring that there are enough qualified Nurses to meet the needs of patients. 

There are several strategies that can be implemented to increase the number of Nurse Educators:

Increase Funding

Providing increased funding for Nursing education programs can help schools hire additional faculty and offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.

It's recommended, Congress pass legislation that would invest in Nursing faculty, clinical placements, and Nursing program facilities so that colleges and universities have the resources to enroll and graduate more students. 

Tuition Forgiveness

Providing tuition forgiveness or loan repayment programs for Nurses who pursue advanced degrees in Nursing education can help incentivize Nurses to become Educators. Learn more about loan forgiveness or loan repayment programs here. 

Mentorship Programs

Providing mentorship programs to support new Nurse Educators can help with their retention and success in the field. These programs are meant to encourage mutual professional growth between both the mentor and the mentee through a dynamic and supportive relationship.

Flexible Scheduling

People everywhere are demanding a shift toward work-life balance. Healthcare professionals are constantly working long hours, with little to no flexibility in their schedules. Offering flexible scheduling options can help attract individuals who may be interested in teaching but have other commitments, such as family or outside work.

Professional Development

Nurse Educators are tasked with nurturing the growth and education of Nurses, but they also need opportunities for growth and development. Offering opportunities for ongoing professional development, such as attending conferences or pursuing advanced degrees, can help keep Nurse Educators up-to-date on the latest Nursing practices and research.

Collaborations with Healthcare Facilities

Partnerships between Nursing schools and healthcare facilities can help provide clinical experiences for Nursing students and provide opportunities for Nurses to transition into teaching roles.

Katie Boston-Leary, PhD, RN, Director of Nursing programs at the American Nurses Association, told Becker's Hospital Review, she views it as "building a bridge" between schools and hospitals to train Nurses in real-world healthcare situations. Additionally, she said, growing an in-house team of Nurse Educators provides a pipeline for hospitals who can be actively involved in cultivating their own future workforces.

By implementing these strategies, Nursing schools and healthcare organizations can work together to address the shortage of Nurse Educators and make sure future generations of Nurses receive the education and training they need to provide high-quality patient care.

Healthcare providers recognize the crucial role nutritious diets play in promoting and maintaining good health. People with healthy eating patterns live longer and are at lower risk for serious health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. For people with chronic diseases, healthy eating can help manage these conditions and prevent complications.

However, over 30 million people in the U.S. live in food-insecure households – including as many as 9 million children.

Studies have shown that nearly 46% of adults and 56% of children in the U.S. have an overall poor-quality diet and unhealthy diets account for more than $50 billion in U.S. healthcare costs.

The leading grocery technology company in North America, Instacart, wants to help end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases in the U.S. 

The company announced their release of the Instacart Health’s provider products, designed to enhance collaborative care, promote healthy choices and deliver nutritious foods to patients across the country. Through Instacart Health, they’re giving providers the tools required to build virtual food pharmacies and deliver actionable nutrition advice to their patients through their platform.

"We know that access to nutritious foods can deliver healthier outcomes, but a number of challenges have prevented healthcare providers from effectively adopting food as medicine programs at scale. With Instacart Health, we have the unique opportunity to partner with providers to expand proven nutrition programs and more deeply integrate food as medicine into standard patient care," said Sarah Mastrorocco, Vice President and General Manager of Instacart Health. "We're proud to offer these products to help providers expand access to nutritious food and make medically-tailored groceries and meal advice more actionable. Together, we can help patients and their families take an active role in their health through food."

Boston Children's Hospital is among the first health systems to leverage Instacart Health provider products for its patients, establishing new food as medicine programs to help them get the nourishment they need to manage and maintain their health.

"At Boston Children's Hospital, we're committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in pediatric health and addressing our patient health needs holistically," said Dr. John Brownstein, Chief Innovation Officer at Boston Children's Hospital. "Together with Instacart Health, we are excited to explore this technology further to help our providers deliver programs serving patients and families with specific dietary needs. Food and nutrition programs are essential to disease treatment and prevention."

Today, Instacart is available to 95% of U.S. households, including 93% of people living in food deserts. And SNAP participants can use their benefits to shop online from more than 10,000 stores across 49 states and Washington D.C. on the Instacart platform. 

"Food desert" is a common phrase used to describe a neighborhood or section of a city where it's hard for people to access healthy food, many of which are low-income communities and communities of color. "Access" is a multi-layered word here — a neighborhood may technically have a grocery store, but it may not be accessible by public transportation.

Instacart partners with more than 1,100 national, regional and local retailers to offer online shopping, delivery and pickup from more than 80,000 stores across North America.

To learn more about Instacart Health visit www.instacart.com/company/health.

Choosing the right Nursing specialty can be a challenging decision, as there are many areas of Nursing to consider. Here are some steps that can help you choose the right specialty:

Assess your interests

Think about the areas of Nursing that interest you the most. Do you enjoy working with children or adults? Do you like working in a fast-paced environment or a more relaxed one? Do you prefer working in a clinical setting or a community-based one? Weighing your choices based on your interests and personality traits will help you narrow down your options.

Research Nursing Specialties

Once you have identified your interests, research the specialties that align best with them. Look for information about the scope of practice, work environment, patient population, salary, and required education and certification. You can also talk to other Nurses who work in these specialties to get a better understanding of what it's really like to work in these areas. 

Johnson and Johnson offers A Nursing Specialty Quiz to help guide you in learning more about specific specialties that fit what you're looking for.

Consider Your Strengths

Think about your strengths as a Nurse. Do you excel at critical thinking and problem-solving? Are you skilled at patient education and counseling? Do you have strong leadership skills? Are you able to work well under pressure? Looking at the areas you excel in will help you pick a specialty that suits you.

Think About Career Goals

Consider your long-term career goals and how a particular Nursing specialty can help you achieve them. Do you want to advance into a leadership role? Do you want to work in a specific healthcare setting or with a particular patient population? Understanding your career goals can help you better choose a specialty that aligns with them.

“One of the best things about being a Nurse is your career can change and flex as you grow,” says Ashleigh Woods, Clinical Assistant Professor of Nursing at Berry College. “Nursing is versatile. Unlike other professions, as a Nurse, you can specialize in ICU medicine, but then after a few years, you can become a specialist in another area.”

Gain Experience

Once you have narrowed down your options, try to gain experience in different areas through clinical rotations or job shadowing. Some Nursing schools offer part-time work for interested students which would allow you to make money and gain experience. Hands on experience can help you get a better sense of what it's like to work in these areas and make an informed decision about which specialty is right for you.

Ultimately, choosing the right specialty is a personal decision that depends on your interests, strengths, career goals, and experience. Take the time to explore your options and gather information before making a decision, and don't be afraid to seek guidance from experienced Nurses and healthcare professionals.