Nursing Shortage Creates High Demand for New Nurses
Posted On October 27,2021
Many industries are facing labor shortages, but one of the most critical staffing shortages is in the healthcare field. A nationwide nursing shortage can have many negative implications, but it also offers a great opportunity for those seeking a new career to become a nurse.
The Current Nursing Shortage and What it Means
Nursing is an excellent career. There are broad and varied job opportunities, good salaries, and the opportunity to have a career helping others. Despite the appeal of a career in nursing, there is a shortage of nurses all over the country right now. Like many professions, a big percentage of the current nursing population is nearing retirement age. As this generation of nurses retire, new nurses are needed to fill the gap, as well as to cover the additional needs of an aging population. When there aren’t enough nurses to meet demand, it isn’t a simple slow down in production, it can mean a decrease in patient care, longer hours for current nursing staff, and stress and burnout for healthcare workers.
The Time is Right to Become a Nurse
With the nursing shortage, the job security of a nurse has never been higher. If you are looking to change careers, now is a great time to do so. New nurses will find ample opportunities and competitive salaries in a variety of nursing positions. Nurse training programs are accessible and affordable, and many new nursing candidates may even find incentives from healthcare facilities to begin or continue their nursing education and many nurses will find any investment in their career well worth it as they are offered signing bonuses from healthcare facilities in need of qualified staff.
LPN to RN Programs
Those who have their LPN can advance their career and take advantage of the nursing shortage by completing a one-year program to become an RN. Registered nurses provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about current issues in health, and provide support to patients and families. RNs work in many healthcare facilities in a variety of specialties. In an LPN to RN program, students will continue their education with classes in nutrition, microbiology, pathophysiology, chemistry, math, psychology, pharmacology, and more. The program includes both classroom training as well as clinical hours, lab training, and preparation for the licensing exams.
Become a Nurse in One Year in a Practical Nurse Program
Practical nurses are in high demand and provide lucrative compensation to those who complete the one-year program. Course work in the program includes anatomy/physiology, fundamentals of nursing pharmacology, obstetrics, pediatrics, medical/surgical nursing, geriatrics, IV therapy, and professional transitions. The program also includes clinical hours, lab training, and concludes with the licensing exam. Practical nurses provide patient care under the direction of registered nurses and physicians. They administer medication, perform IV therapies, monitor and evaluate patient needs, check vital signs, and perform bathing, dressing, and wound care. Practical nurses supervise the care given by nursing and medical assistants. Practical nurses work in many medical facilities.
When the supply is low and the demand is high, those with the right education and skills can reap the rewards of investing in their career. When you become a nurse, you’ll be choosing a career with job security, a competitive salary, and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of your patients. For more information on how to get started, contact Athena Career Academy today!
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