Current Nursing Situation

[2bNurseLaEnfermera]

With more second career changers entering the nursing profession through accelerated BSN or other programs, will the US reduce the number of foreign nurses on the unit? I respect all cultures so please don't interpret my question negatively.

[HM2VikingRN, RN]

I personally doubt that a reduction will be seen. With the combination of the looming nursing shortage AND the aging of the nursing workforce there will be a demand exceeds supply situation for years to come.

[RN1989]

I don't think so. Someone who is older entering the field with a BSN+ having degrees in other fields are likely to expect to be paid accordingly for their education and life experience. Employers will still get more work for less money and/or hassle out of a foreign nurse desperate to leave their own country.

[EricJRN, MSN, RN]

Here's the problem: Many people believe that there are more than enough US licensed nurses to go around. However, many of them decide not to continue in nursing after the first few years because of dissatisfaction with working conditions. Until workload and staffing issues are addressed, we're just putting new nurses through the same revolving door.

[Medic2RN, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

Here's the problem: Many people believe that there are more than enough US licensed nurses to go around. However, many of them decide not to continue in nursing after the first few years because of dissatisfaction with working conditions. Until workload and staffing issues are addressed, we're just putting new nurses through the same revolving door.

This is very true and very unfortunate! It's frustrating to see the potential nursing has to offer; however, in my experience, the conditions have been deplorable.

I guess it's only a matter of time....

[herring_RN, ASN, BSN]

It does take time but nurses working together can and do improve patient care and working conditions.

That draw nurses back to the bedside.

And nurses to the facilities and state where staffing is safer.