Sunday, October 12, 2008
Addressing the shortage
In many of the comments to the previous post, several people touched on the desire to have "quality" nurses not "quantity" nurses. An alarming issue regarding the nursing shortage is that of enrollment in nursing schools, particularly entry-level baccalaureate nursing programs. According to the AACN (2008), a 7.4% increase in the number of graduates from entry-level baccalaureate nursing programs was seen from 2006 to 2007; but to meet the future need, a 90% increase in graduates is required. AACN’s (2008) preliminary 2007 data showed that 30,709 qualified applicants were declined admission to an entry-level baccalaureate nursing program. Barriers noted to accepting all qualified students were limited faculty, clinical placement sites and classroom space to satisfy the demand. What are other barriers you see and what are your ideas to address this issue? If we are already behind in the "quantity" of nurses needed, how would you suggest to improve the "quality" of those graduating?
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2 comments:
Interesting point. Quality versus quantity. Improving quality is vital to improving pt outcomes. How to do this? I think it lies in nursing education. Providing quality education will lead to quality nurses. The first year as a new nurse is the most fundamental. The manner in which orientation and continuing education is handled at the hiring facilities further effects the quality of nursing care provided. I don't have the reference with me at the moment, but L. Aiken did research which indicated BSN prepared nurses had better pt outcomes than their counterparts. In light of this, requiring the same level of education would be a good starting point. I think several of our blogs are tying into each other. Refer to the blog on nurses as educators.. the beginning of quality and then the one on mentoring... the continuing of quality. I look forward to seeing everyone's posts.
I'm not sure if you are aware, but Barack Obama has been endorsed by the ANA for the presidential candidate. He has proposed a plan to help halt the nursing shortage which includes financial incentives to nursing students and faculty, safer patient to nurse ratios and a safer work environment. Just a thought to ponder...
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