DiversityNursing Blog

Becoming a Nurse is a rewarding yet challenging career path. It’s a calling filled with moments of joy, frustration, and constant learning. While Nursing school does its best to prepare you, there are many things you can only learn through experience. If you’re considering a career in Nursing or are just starting out, here are some things I wish I had known before stepping into this field.

Nursing Is Emotionally Demanding

I expected the physical demands of Nursing, but the emotional aspect took me by surprise. You will deal with loss, grieving families, and patients facing their worst moments. It’s essential to develop emotional resilience. However, it’s okay to feel vulnerable. Seeking support from colleagues, friends, or a therapist is not a sign of weakness; it's a necessary part of self-care in this profession.

You Can’t Do Everything on Your Own

In Nursing school, you're often focused on individual performance. But real-life Nursing is a team effort. You rely heavily on your colleagues, from Physicians to support staff. Learning to delegate and communicate effectively is key. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it—it’s better for the patient and for you.

Time Management Will Make or Break Your Shift

One of the biggest challenges Nurses face is managing time effectively. You might have 10 things that need to get done at once, but prioritizing tasks is critical. As a new Nurse, it took me time to learn how to organize my day, manage interruptions, and still provide quality care. I wish I practiced more strategies for time management early on—like clustering care tasks, minimizing distractions, and always having a plan, but being ready to adapt when emergencies happen.

You Will Make Mistakes—And That’s Okay

No matter how well-prepared you are, mistakes happen. The key is to learn from them and not let them define you. I vividly remember the first time I made an error with medication. I was devastated, but I quickly realized mistakes are part of the learning process. The important thing is to be transparent, own your error, and take immediate steps to ensure patient safety.

Your Feet Will Hurt!

Standing, walking, running between patient rooms—it’s a constant physical strain. Invest in high-quality shoes and compression socks early on. I didn’t, and trust me, my feet paid the price. Also, take breaks when you can, stretch, and stay hydrated. Nursing is a marathon, not a sprint.

Documentation Is an Art Form

One of the biggest adjustments after Nursing school is realizing how much time you’ll spend documenting patient care. At first, charting can seem overwhelming. But it’s vital for patient safety, legal protection, and continuity of care. I learned to chart in real-time as much as possible and to focus on key points—clear, concise, and accurate. The more efficiently you chart, the more time you’ll have to actually care for patients.

You Will Be an Advocate

One thing I didn’t fully grasp before becoming a Nurse is how much advocacy is a part of the role. You’re the patient's voice when they can’t speak for themselves. Whether it’s questioning a medication order, ensuring they understand their discharge instructions, or communicating their needs to the care team, advocacy is an integral part of Nursing. It can be intimidating, but it’s necessary to ensure patients receive the best care.

It’s Okay to Not Know Everything

As a new Nurse, I felt an immense pressure to know all the answers. The reality is, you won’t. Medicine is always evolving, and each patient presents a unique case. It’s important to stay curious, ask questions, and continue learning. Experienced Nurses are a wealth of knowledge—tap into their experience and never be afraid to admit when you don’t know something.

Work-Life Balance Can Be Tough

Shift work, long hours, and the emotional toll can make it difficult to find a good work-life balance. I’ve learned it’s crucial to set boundaries. Taking time off, engaging in hobbies, and connecting with loved ones helps prevent burnout. Nursing is demanding, but your personal well-being matters just as much as your professional responsibilities.

Nursing Is Incredibly Fulfilling

Despite all the challenges, Nursing is one of the most rewarding careers out there. The satisfaction of helping others through some of their most difficult times is unparalleled. You’ll build relationships with patients, witness recovery, and be a part of life-changing moments. No 2 days are the same, and the work you do genuinely makes a difference.

Nursing is not for the faint of heart, but if you have the passion for it, it will be one of the most fulfilling journeys of your life. These lessons are ones I wish I had known early on, but they’ve shaped me into the Nurse I am today. Remember, it's okay to grow, to ask for help, and to learn along the way. If you can embrace the challenges, you’ll find that Nursing is not just a career—it’s a calling.

Jefferson Health, a DiversityNursing.com “Proud Partner”, is excited to reveal the growth of its Nursing SEAL Team, a groundbreaking initiative designed to tackle staffing shortages while offering Nurses enhanced flexibility and valuable experience.

The Nursing SEAL Team, which stands for Service, Excellence, Advocacy, and Leadership, was inspired by the concept of an elite special forces unit. Initially launched in 2022 with 25 Registered Nurses, the program has grown to encompass over 150 highly experienced, full-time Nurses who deliver care across Jefferson’s acute care hospitals.

“We recognize the importance of identifying innovative solutions to address Nursing workforce and staffing challenges,” said Daniel Hudson, MSN, RN, CENP, Vice President and Associate Chief Nurse Executive, Jefferson Health. “Our Nursing SEAL Team has proven to be a successful solution that has resulted in greater flexibility and improved Nurse satisfaction, while continuing to ensure that our patients receive the highest quality of care.”

Nurses on the SEAL Team are assigned to a variety of departments, such as medical/surgical, telemetry, critical care, and emergency services, ensuring that a broad spectrum of patient needs are met. Every two weeks, team members are reassigned to the hospital and unit that requires the most support for each shift. These assignments are determined using proactive scheduling data and insights from Nursing workforce leaders.

Nurses are strategically positioned ahead of time to cover for colleagues on leave and to bolster departments with high vacancy rates or those that typically see a surge in patient admissions. Of the more than 150 Nurses on the SEAL Team, a significant 60 percent or more are assigned to night or rotating shifts, where the need for additional support is often greater.

“The Nursing SEAL Team has been a tremendous support to all levels of our workforce. The average SEAL Team member has nine years of Nursing experience which brings a wealth of knowledge and clinical expertise to support new to practice Nurses on their units,” said Andrew Thum, DNP, ML, RN, NE-BC, Director, Nursing Workforce Operations, Jefferson Health.

Since its launch two years ago, the Nursing SEAL Team has garnered consistent positive feedback from its members. In addition to providing greater flexibility and better staffing, the initiative has significantly decreased the dependence on agency Nurses, achieving an impressive 95% reduction.

“Nursing workforce optimization requires a multi-faceted approach to meet the ever-changing needs of our care teams. Our Nursing SEAL Team is one of many ways that we continue to engage, retain and recruit highly qualified and experienced Nurses,” said Kate FitzPatrick, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Executive Vice President and Connelly Foundation Chief Nurse Executive Officer, Jefferson Health.

Jefferson’s Nursing SEAL Team is part of the organization’s comprehensive strategy for Nursing workforce optimization. Additional initiatives include the Virtual Nurse Program and Nurse Emeritus Program.

Source: Jefferson Health

Nursing is a rewarding yet challenging profession. Long hours, demanding tasks, and the need to stay organized can make shifts overwhelming. To help you navigate your day more efficiently, here are some practical hacks to streamline your tasks and improve your overall workflow before and during your shifts.

Prepare the Night Before

Pack Smart: Lay out your uniform, shoes, and any necessary accessories the night before. This eliminates the morning scramble and ensures you start your day smoothly.

Meal Prep: Prepare your meals and snacks in advance. Pack high-protein snacks, fruits, and vegetables to keep your energy levels up throughout the shift.

Check Your Schedule: Review your schedule and any patient updates before heading to bed. This helps you mentally prepare for the day ahead.

Optimize Your Shift Start

Arrive Early: Arriving a few minutes early allows you to settle in, review patient charts, and prioritize tasks before the official start of your shift.

Organize Your Workspace: Take a few moments to organize your workstation. A tidy workspace reduces stress and helps you find necessary items quickly.

Create a To-Do List: Outline your tasks for the day. Prioritize them based on urgency and importance to ensure nothing crucial is overlooked.

Streamline Your Tasks

Batch Similar Tasks: Group similar tasks together to save time. For example, if you need to check vital signs for multiple patients, do it in one go.

Use Checklists: Create checklists for recurring tasks, such as patient admissions or discharges. Checklists ensure you don’t miss any steps and help you stay organized.

Delegate Wisely: Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks to Nursing Assistants or support staff when appropriate. Delegation frees you up to focus on more critical duties.

Maximize Patient Care Efficiency

Prepare Supplies in Advance: Before entering a patient’s room, gather all necessary supplies. This minimizes the need to leave the room repeatedly, saving time and maintaining patient focus.

Document in Real-Time: Document patient care and observations in real-time or as soon as possible. This prevents backlog and ensures accurate, up-to-date records.

Use Technology: Utilize technology, such as mobile apps or digital reminders, to keep track of medications, appointments, and other important tasks.

Take Care of Yourself

Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle with you and sip regularly. Staying hydrated maintains your energy levels and cognitive function.

Take Breaks: Use your breaks to relax and recharge. Even a few minutes of deep breathing or a short walk can make a significant difference.

Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, into your day. These practices reduce stress and improve focus.

Foster Teamwork and Communication

Communicate Clearly: Clear and concise communication with colleagues ensures everyone is on the same page, reducing errors and improving patient care.

Support Each Other: Foster a supportive environment by helping colleagues when possible. A collaborative team reduces individual stress and improves overall efficiency.

Share Tips and Tricks: Share your own Nursing hacks with your team and be open to learning from others. Collective wisdom enhances everyone’s efficiency and effectiveness.

By incorporating these Nursing hacks into your routine, you can streamline your tasks, improve efficiency, and provide better patient care. Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your patients. With a bit of preparation and smart strategies, you can make your shifts more manageable and enjoyable. Happy Nursing!

Nursing is a profession enveloped in myths and misconceptions. Despite being one of the most respected careers, many misunderstandings persist about what Nurses do, their level of expertise, and the nature of their work. As a Nursing Career and Information website, we want to clear up some of these common myths and shed light on the realities of the profession.

Nurses Are Just Doctors' Assistants

One of the most widespread myths is Nurses are merely assistants to Doctors, following orders without their own critical thinking. In reality, Nurses are highly trained professionals who provide independent patient care. They assess patients, develop care plans, administer medications, and educate patients and their families. While they collaborate with Doctors, their role is distinct and autonomous, often involving complex decision-making and specialized skills.

Nursing Is a Profession For Women

The stereotype that Nursing is a career for Women is outdated and inaccurate. While the profession has historically been dominated by Women, Men have always been a part of Nursing. Today, the number of male Nurses is steadily increasing, bringing diversity and challenging gender norms within the field. Nursing is for anyone with a passion for healthcare and patient advocacy, regardless of gender.

Nurses Only Work in Hospitals

When people think of Nurses, they often picture hospital settings. However, Nurses work in a variety of environments, including schools, community health centers, research labs, corporate offices, and even patients' homes. They play crucial roles in public health, policy-making, education, and beyond. The versatility of Nursing means there are opportunities in countless settings.

All Nurses Do the Same Thing

Nursing is a diverse field with numerous specialties. From Pediatrics to Geriatrics, Oncology to Critical Care, each Nursing specialty requires specific knowledge and skills. Advanced Practice Nurses, such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), hold advanced degrees and provide specialized care, often similar to that of Physicians. The scope of Nursing specialties offers varied and fulfilling career paths.

Nurses Are Always Caring and Compassionate

Nursing is a profession that demands a unique blend of qualities, beyond just empathy and compassion. It requires resilience to navigate challenging situations, critical thinking to make quick decisions, and technical expertise to provide high-quality care. Nurses are not just caretakers; they are healthcare professionals who juggle multiple responsibilities, from managing complex medical conditions to advocating for their patients' needs.

Working under significant stress is a reality for many Nurses, yet they continue to show dedication and determination in providing the best possible care. The stereotype of the always-smiling, endlessly patient Nurse overlooks the depth and complexity of the profession, where Nurses are skilled professionals who make a difference in the lives of their patients every day.

Nursing Is Easier Than Being a Doctor

Nursing and medicine are distinct professions with their own challenges and demands. Nursing requires rigorous education, including anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care. Many Nurses pursue advanced degrees and certifications to specialize further. The emotional and physical demands of Nursing are significant, and the notion that it is an "easier" path undermines the dedication and expertise required.

Nursing is a dynamic and evolving profession that goes beyond the outdated stereotypes. Nurses are integral to the healthcare system, providing expert, compassionate care across diverse settings. By debunking these myths, we can better appreciate the complexity and significance of the Nursing profession. Whether you're considering a career in Nursing or simply want to understand it better, it's important to recognize and respect the critical role Nurses play in healthcare.

Within the vast world of healthcare, Nurses serve as beacons of compassion, knowledge, and strength.They are the unsung heroes, the caregivers who hold the hands of the sick, the healers who bring comfort in times of distress. Nursing is not merely a profession; it's a calling, a commitment to serve humanity with unwavering dedication. In this article, we explore the profound reasons why Nursing is not just a career choice but a way of life.

Making a Difference Every Day

Every day a Nurse brings the opportunity to create a meaningful impact in someone's life. Whether it involves administering medication, providing comfort to a distressed patient, or advocating for their needs, Nurses play a crucial role in the healing journey. The gratitude in a patient's eyes, the sigh of relief from a worried family member - these moments reinforce the significant influence Nurses have on the lives of the people in their care.

Opportunities for Growth

The field of Nursing is a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Such as, delving into specialized areas like Pediatrics and Oncology or taking on roles in education, research, and administration. Nurses have the freedom to carve out diverse career paths tailored to their passions and ambitions. The essence of continuous learning is deeply ingrained in Nursing, with avenues for pursuing advanced degrees, certifications, and specialized training readily accessible. 

Building Meaningful Connections

At the heart of Nursing lies the art of building meaningful connections with patients and their loved ones. Nurses often find themselves in intimate moments, offering not just medical care, but also emotional support and empathy. These connections foster trust, compassion, and understanding, creating a therapeutic environment essential for healing and recovery. Nurses also forge deep connections with their colleagues, forming a strong network of support and camaraderie that enhances teamwork and collaboration.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

In the world of Nursing, Diversity isn't just welcomed - it's celebrated with open arms. Nurses have the privilege of working with individuals from all walks of life, embracing cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic differences. This Diversity enriches the Nursing profession, providing a deeper understanding of global health disparities and the unique needs of diverse populations. As advocates for health equity, Nurses play a crucial role in addressing disparities and promoting inclusive healthcare practices.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Despite the challenges that come with the territory, such as enduring long hours and navigating emotionally taxing situations, it is during these very moments of adversity the true essence of Nursing radiates most brightly. Nurses showcase unparalleled resilience, standing unwavering in the face of obstacles, and persisting with a blend of grace and fortitude that sets them apart. This resilience forms the core of Nursing, serving as a guiding light that inspires others to walk in their footsteps.

A Lifelong Journey of Learning and Discovery

In the world of Nursing, the journey of learning is an endless exploration, a continuous quest for knowledge and growth. From keeping up with the latest advancements in healthcare to perfecting clinical skills and sharpening critical thinking abilities, Nurses embrace a lifelong commitment to mastering their profession. Each interaction with a patient offers a chance to expand knowledge, deepen empathy, and enhance practice, making every day a new opportunity for discovery and personal development.

Being a Nurse is more than just a job—it's a privilege, a profound journey of service, compassion, and growth. It's about touching lives, making a difference, and leaving a lasting mark on the world. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, the rewards of Nursing are immeasurable. So, to all the Nurses out there, thank you for your unwavering dedication, your boundless compassion, and your tireless commitment to healing. You are the heartbeat of healthcare, and the world is a better place because of you.

Teamwork is a fundamental aspect of the Nursing practice and is essential for providing safe and effective patient care. In healthcare, Nurses collaborate with a diverse team of professionals, including other Nurses, Physicians, Therapists, Pharmacists, and support staff.

Key Aspects of Teamwork in Nursing:

Communication

Communication is the cornerstone of collaboration, ensuring all team members are well-informed and working towards a common goal. Effective communication involves more than conveying information; it encompasses active listening, sharing relevant information, and seeking clarification when necessary.

Active listening is a main component of effective communication. Nurses must attentively listen to their colleagues' viewpoints, concerns, and suggestions. By actively listening, Nurses demonstrate respect for their team members and establish a foundation of trust. This creates an environment where everyone feels valued and encourages the exchange of ideas.

Sharing relevant information ensures all team members have a comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition and care plan. Nurses should provide clear and concise updates, including any changes in the patient's status, medications, or treatment plans. Sharing this information in a timely manner allows the team to make informed decisions and provide coordinated care.

Asking for clarification when needed is another vital aspect of effective communication. Nurses must not hesitate to seek clarification if they are unsure about any aspect of the patient's care or if they need further information to perform their tasks effectively. This proactive approach fosters a culture of openness and collaboration, where questions are encouraged, and knowledge is shared.

Nurses should convey information in a professional and respectful manner, considering the emotions and sensitivities of their colleagues. By maintaining a positive and supportive communication style, Nurses contribute to a harmonious work environment and enhance teamwork.

Collaboration

Collaboration is at the heart of Nursing practice, it allows healthcare professionals from various disciplines to come together and provide comprehensive care to patients. Nurses play a crucial role in this collaborative effort by working closely with Physicians, Therapists, and other members of the healthcare team to develop and implement care plans that address the holistic needs of each individual.

In this collaborative process, Nurses bring their unique perspective and expertise to the table, contributing valuable insights and knowledge that enhance the overall quality of patient care. By actively engaging in interdisciplinary discussions and sharing their observations and assessments, Nurses ensure that all aspects of the patient's health are considered and addressed.

Respect and Trust

Respecting each other's expertise and perspectives is mandatory for effective teamwork. Team members must acknowledge and value the unique skills and knowledge each individual brings to the table. This respect fosters an environment of trust, where team members can rely on one another and work together harmoniously.

Trust is the foundation upon which successful teamwork is built. It is developed through open and transparent communication, where team members feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. By actively listening to one another, respecting different viewpoints, and engaging in constructive dialogue, trust is nurtured and strengthened.

Reliability is another key factor in building trust within a healthcare team. Team members must be dependable and follow through on their commitments and responsibilities. This includes being punctual, completing tasks in a timely manner, and ensuring their actions align with the agreed-upon care plan. When team members can rely on one another, they feel confident in the team's ability to deliver safe and effective patient care.

A shared commitment to patient well-being is the ultimate bond that unites a healthcare team. When team members prioritize the best interests of the patient above all else, trust is reinforced. This commitment involves advocating for the patient, collaborating on care decisions, and continuously striving to improve the quality of care provided.

Role Clarity

Each member of the healthcare team has specific roles and responsibilities that are keys to the overall functioning of the team. Clear delineation of roles helps prevent confusion, ensures tasks are completed efficiently, and contributes to a smoother workflow.

By clearly defining each team member's role, there is a greater sense of accountability and ownership over their specific tasks. This allows for better organization and coordination within the team, as everyone knows exactly what is expected of them. With role clarity, each team member can focus on their own responsibilities, which leads to increased productivity and effectiveness in delivering patient care.

Adaptability

As situations can change rapidly, team members must be able to quickly adapt and respond to emerging challenges. This requires flexibility and a willingness to collaborate on problem-solving.

Adaptability means being open to new ideas and approaches. It involves embracing change and being willing to step outside of one's comfort zone. Nurses who are adaptable understand there is always room for improvement and are constantly seeking ways to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Being adaptable also means being able to think on your feet and make quick decisions when necessary. In high-pressure situations, Nurses must be able to assess the situation, consider all available information, and make informed choices in the best interest of the patient. This requires a calm and composed demeanor, as well as the ability to prioritize and multitask effectively.

Conflict Resolution

This is an inevitable aspect of teamwork, and is needed to address conflicts promptly in order to maintain a harmonious work environment. Constructive conflict resolution involves a combination of open communication, active listening, and finding solutions that benefit both the individuals involved and the team as a whole.

It is important to note conflict resolution is not about winning or losing, but rather about finding a resolution that satisfies all parties involved. This requires compromise, flexibility, and a willingness to consider different perspectives. By finding middle ground and reaching a consensus, conflicts can be resolved in a way that promotes unity and collaboration within the team.

Continuous Improvement

This involves a commitment to consistently evaluating and enhancing the quality of patient care. By engaging in ongoing evaluation and quality improvement efforts, healthcare professionals can ensure they are providing the best possible care to their patients.

Regular team meetings provide an opportunity for team members to come together and discuss various aspects of patient care. These meetings allow for open and honest communication, where team members can share their experiences, challenges, and successes. By sharing insights and lessons learned, the team can identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to address them. Team meetings also foster a sense of unity and collaboration, as everyone works together towards a common goal of providing optimal patient care.

Feedback sessions are another important component of continuous improvement. These sessions involve giving and receiving feedback on individual and team performance. Constructive feedback allows team members to identify their strengths and areas for growth, as well as receive guidance on how to enhance their skills and knowledge. By providing feedback in a supportive and constructive manner, team members can feel empowered to make positive changes and contribute to the overall improvement of the team.

Effective teamwork in Nursing is a collaborative effort that involves clear communication, respect, trust, and a shared commitment to patient-centered care. Nurses play a central role in fostering positive teamwork and contributing to the overall success of the healthcare team.

Creating a healthy work environment for Nurses should be a top priority for employers in the healthcare industry. Nurses play a vital role in patient care, and their well-being directly impacts the quality of care they provide. By addressing some of the biggest issues in Nursing today, such as recruitment, retention, burnout, and bullying, employers can create a positive and supportive work environment that ultimately benefits both Nurses and patients.

Recruitment and retention are ongoing challenges in the industry. Many healthcare facilities struggle to attract and retain qualified Nurses, leading to staffing shortages and increased workload for the existing staff. By focusing on creating healthy work environments, employers can make their organizations more appealing to prospective Nurses and enhance employee satisfaction and loyalty. A positive work environment with adequate resources, support, and opportunities for professional growth can attract and retain talented Nurses, ensuring a stable workforce and improving patient outcomes.

Burnout is a pervasive issue among Nurses, resulting from the demanding nature of their work and high levels of stress. A negative work environment can exacerbate burnout and its associated physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. 

A McKinsey Health Institute (MHI) report found a direct correlation between a workplace's toxicity and the levels of stress and burnout reported by its employees. According to this research, employees are almost 8 times more likely to report symptoms of burnout when faced with high levels of toxic workplace behavior.

Employers need to prioritize the well-being of their Nursing staff by implementing strategies that promote work-life balance, provide access to support services, and encourage self-care. By fostering a culture of wellness and offering resources to manage stress, employers can mitigate burnout and create an environment where Nurses feel valued and supported.

Bullying is another significant issue that affects Nurses' well-being and job satisfaction. Workplace bullying can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and decreased morale among Nurses, ultimately impacting patient care. 

According to an article from the National Library of Medicine, "A significant percentage of Nurses leave their first job due to the negative behaviors of their coworkers, and bullying is likely to exacerbate the growing Nurse shortage. A bullying culture contributes to a poor Nurse work environment, increased risk to patients, lower Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) patient satisfaction scores, and greater Nurse turnover."

Health systems must take proactive measures to prevent and address bullying in the workplace. This includes implementing clear policies against bullying, providing training on respectful communication and conflict resolution, and fostering a culture of respect and collaboration. By creating a safe and respectful work environment, employers can empower Nurses to excel in their roles and provide the best possible care to patients.

Negative workplaces not only harm the well-being of Nurses but also contribute to disengagement and decreased job satisfaction. When Nurses feel unsupported, unappreciated, or overwhelmed by their work environment, they are more likely to become disengaged, which can ultimately lead to decreased productivity and compromised patient care. Employers must recognize the impact of the work environment on Nurse engagement and take steps to create a positive and empowering atmosphere. This can be achieved through open communication, involving Nurses in decision-making processes, and providing opportunities for professional development and growth.

In conclusion, creating a healthy work environment for Nurses should be a top priority for employers. By addressing issues such as recruitment, retention, burnout, and bullying, employers can create a positive and supportive workplace that enhances Nurses' well-being and improves patient care. Investing in the well-being of Nurses not only benefits the individuals but also contributes to the overall success of healthcare organizations. Employers must recognize the crucial role Nurses play in healthcare and take proactive steps to ensure their work environment fosters their growth, satisfaction, and ultimately, the provision of high-quality patient care.

Nurses at the forefront of healthcare continue to face challenges that change how we provide Nursing care to our patients. As the Nursing field continues to evolve, here are some of the top Nursing trends to watch in 2023 and for the years to come.

Nursing Shortages

Nursing shortages across all aspects of healthcare will continue to increase in 2023 and for several years to come. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nurses have experienced higher rates of burnout which has led to an increased number of Nurses leaving bedside Nursing or even the Nursing profession altogether. Nurse burnout, coupled with the baby boomer generation of Nurses entering retirement, has left an increasing need for Nursing professionals across all aspects of healthcare.

To help combat the growing Nursing shortage, many Nursing programs offer rolling admissions and flexible online Nursing programs to help accommodate as many potential Nurses as possible. The World Health Organization has estimated that nearly 6 million more healthcare jobs must be filled by 2030 to meet the growing healthcare needs. We can expect the demand for Nurses to remain high for many years.

Job Availability Increases

Job availability for Nurses has been rising for several years, and 2023 will be no different. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that by 2031, job growth for Registered Nurses is expected to increase by 6% and Nurse Practitioners by 40%. Several factors will influence the increasing job availability, including the retirement of the baby boomer generation of Nurses, the growing demand for healthcare, and the inability of Nursing schools to keep up with the increasing demands of students. 

Online Nursing Programs

As the demand for Nursing professionals increases, online education programs will continue to grow in popularity. Online programs offer students scheduling flexibility to make it easier to attend classes while dealing with other responsibilities like work and family life. Online programs also create a new market for students living in rural areas who need help commuting to universities.

Travel Nursing

Travel Nursing has been a rising trend for some time, but it came into focus during the COVID-19 Pandemic. As thousands of Nurses traveled to care for the surging patient volumes in COVID-19 hot spots, it was realized how much value travel Nurses bring to the shifting demands of healthcare. Travel Nursing offers higher compensation, the opportunity to work in new environments, and travel opportunities Nurses otherwise would not be able to experience. More and more Nurses have discovered the endless perks of travel Nursing over the past few years, and there is no end in sight. We can expect travel Nursing to continue to grow in popularity.

Increased Salaries

As the Nursing shortage continues, it is expected that we will see an increase in salary for Nurses over the next few years. Adequate compensation is necessary to attract and retain qualified Nurses, recognize them for their expertise, and address their daily challenges. Although increasing salaries for Nurses involves much more than just a higher paycheck, many healthcare networks have been reconsidering healthcare budgets, government policies, and negotiations between employers and unions to help better compensate Nurses for their tireless work efforts.

Mental Health Awareness

Mental health is an essential aspect of well-being for everyone, including Nurses. The Nursing profession has always been one to carry a significant mental burden, and this can take a toll on mental health over time. Although it has been going on for decades, the pandemic revealed a devastating increase in Nurse burnout, stress, fatigue, anxiety, and depression that can no longer be ignored. In the coming years, we can expect to see an increase in mental health awareness and services available to help Nurses better prioritize their mental health. It is anticipated that healthcare organizations will start to implement initiatives to help promote self-care and work-life balance, like mental health services, stress reduction programs, and peer support networks.

Telehealth Services

Telehealth and virtual care services have exponentially increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses are now providing remote care, conducting virtual health assessments, monitoring patients remotely and offering telephonic or video consultations to help bridge healthcare gaps and improve patient outcomes. Telehealth services allow for increased access to healthcare to patients who otherwise would not have available healthcare like people from rural or underserved areas. As healthcare continues to evolve and grow, we can expect the same from telehealth services over the next few years.

Nursing trends shape the Nursing progression and can significantly impact working environments and the roles and responsibilities of Nurses. As Nursing trends continue to evolve, one thing that will always remain true about the Nursing profession is it will remain a dynamic profession that must continue to grow and adapt to new medical research, technology, and healthcare challenges.

A positive workplace culture is essential for Nurses to provide excellent patient care. In addition, a positive workplace culture on Nursing units can positively impact job satisfaction, staff retention, and patient outcomes.

Unfortunately, in some Nursing units, bullying is tolerated, silently condoned, or completely ignored. This leads to a toxic culture and an unhealthy workplace. There is an age-old phenomenon among some Nurses called “Nurses eating their young.” This form of bullying has been viewed as a rite of passage for new Nurses, but in the end, it has resulted in devastating effects on unit morale. It can have a long-lasting impact on the self-confidence of new Nurses.

The good news is most Nursing units offer a culture of support and positivity. And thankfully, the culture of “eating your young” is slowly dissolving. Nurses see coworkers more often than family due to working long hours, overnights, or holidays, so having support and camaraderie with your colleagues is very important.

Here are some ways you can help support Nurses on your unit to increase morale and create a positive Nursing culture.

Make Friends with Your Co-Workers

Nursing can be stressful, and Nurses often experience intense situations at work. Bonding with coworkers and developing friendships can reduce stress and create a more positive work environment. After all, only Nurses can understand what other Nurses go through. Why not make friends with your Nursing colleagues so you have someone to share all the joys and struggles of the job?

Be a Role Model

The best way to encourage a positive work culture in your unit is to model positive, encouraging behavior. For example, always lend a hand to a fellow Nurse with a heavier patient load or praise a co-worker for a job well done – it’s a great way to spread positivity.

Small acts of kindness are also great ways to role model good behavior on your Nursing units. Acts of service can be as simple as answering a call bell for a fellow Nurse or offering to cover your coworker's patients so they can take their lunch break. When Nurses choose to be positive, show compassion, and respect for their fellow Nurses, we can experience a happier work environment and improve the culture of our units. 

Acknowledge Strengths

Recognizing positive behavior and a job well done is the best way to motivate your colleagues and spread positivity. Feeling valued at work encourages staff members to perform their best and go the extra mile. Empowering Nurses by appreciating everything they do goes a long way. Say thank you to your co-workers when they help you out or compliment them when a job is done well.

Have Fun!

Nurses often deal with life and death circumstances, so saying ‘have fun’ can seem a little insensitive. However, having fun at work is excellent for your mental health and can help reduce stress both on and off the job. Finding humor and laughing with co-workers can lighten the stress Nurses carry on their shoulders throughout the day. Other ideas to try on your unit could be to plan a day to match scrubs, a theme day to celebrate a holiday, or plan a potluck so everyone can enjoy a snack on their lunch break. 

Nurses are kind and compassionate with their patients. They should act the same way to their coworkers. You have the power to create an encouraging, positive culture. So go out there and spread positivity because happy Nurses provide the best care to their patients.

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.