The nursing workforce is experiencing a staffing crisis. The shortage of nurses affects different sectors, such as in-person, virtual, and telephone nursing. It is also threatening the safety and well-being of patients. Many factors contribute to the issue.Some nurses are simply looking for better job opportunities. After just a couple of years of practice, many nurses leave the profession ultimately.
In the US, there is a shortage of over 1.1 million nurses. This issue is expected to worsen over the next couple of decades as the baby boom generation, and the increasing number of patients with chronic illnesses continue to require more nurses. The current economic climate and the high worker demand have prompted many nurses to leave their positions. They are motivated by the desire to work in greener pastures.
Even with the increasing recruitment tactics and bonuses, the need for more nurses still affects the quality of care. This is why the government and the private sectors must work together to address the issue. The lack of nurses can have a frightening impact on the safety of patients. Increasing nurse staffing levels is a top priority for most providers. Without adequate staffing, the lack of nurses can affect the quality of care for patients in different areas, such as nursing homes and hospitals.
It can also affect the experience of patients who are young and healthy. It is the responsibility of the entire healthcare system to address the shortage of nurses. Besides the chief nurse executive, other healthcare executives and officials are also expected to play their part in improving the quality of care.
- Recruit To Keep
Hiring nurses with the potential to excel in their roles is very important. These individuals should have the necessary qualities to provide the best possible care to their patients. These include being dedicated to patient care and having a passion for the healthcare industry.
- Recruit Deliberately
Interviewers should use behavioral-based questions to evaluate candidates’ communication skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. They should also show a commitment to patient care. Make sure to be upfront about the expectations of the position and the job requirements.
During a triage operation, which is usually a 24-hour operation, it’s essential to ensure that the duties are clear and consistent. Also, tell the candidate if they will work on weekends or holidays. Being upfront about the position and the job requirements helps minimize the risk of burnout and ensures the safety of patients.
- Consult With Existing Staff
Before hiring, ensure experienced healthcare professionals thoroughly interview the candidates. These individuals are the ones who can make or break the success of the organization. They should also be able to get along with their colleagues.
- Automate Tedious Tasks
Most nurses spend their workdays navigating tedious processes to maintain the telehealth machine. These tasks can aggravate and exhaust them, and they prefer to focus on providing the best possible care for their patients. A positive image of nurses as professionals can help organizations retain and recruit more nurses.
In addition, organizations must support highly skilled workers, such as doctors, lawyers, and engineers, with the necessary resources and technology to ensure their success. Fortunately, there are now tools that help nurses perform at the top of their game by automatically removing tedious tasks from their work schedules.
