Nursing 2023: A New Emphasis on Nursing Strategy

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Workforce Studies
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated pre-existing health system challenges, notably chronic nursing shortages.
• Past solutions to nursing shortages have been temporary, failing to address underlying issues.
• Decades of underinvestment and systemic problems have contributed to the current staffing crisis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the need for nurse leaders to address the root causes of nursing shortages.
• To advocate for sustainable, long-term strategies to mitigate staffing crises.
• To present a high-level example of strategic planning for nursing workforce sustainability.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of systemic issues contributing to nursing shortages.
• Review of historical crisis-driven solutions and their limitations.
• Framework development for strategic planning in nursing enterprises.

Main Results:

• Nursing shortages are a long-standing issue, intensified by the pandemic, not solely caused by it.
• Reactive, short-term solutions have historically failed to ensure nursing workforce sustainability.
• A strategic approach involving vision, planning, and tactics is essential for addressing current and future needs.

Conclusions:

• Nurse leaders must implement sustainable solutions that address root causes of nursing shortages.
• Strategic planning is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of the nursing workforce.
• Proactive, long-term strategies are necessary to overcome the current and future nursing staffing crisis.