Attracting nurses to long-term care

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Studies

Background:

• The long-standing registered nurse (RN) shortage in long-term care (LTC) poses a significant societal challenge.
• Increasingly complex care needs of the aging population will exacerbate demand for RNs in nursing homes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key factors influencing registered nurse (RN) recruitment and retention in the long-term care sector.
• To inform strategies for mitigating the critical nursing shortage in nursing homes.

Main Methods:

• This study synthesized findings related to RN recruitment needs in long-term care settings.
• Analysis focused on factors contributing to the persistent shortage and potential solutions.

Main Results:

• Effective RN recruitment in LTC necessitates adequate qualified staff, strong administration, competitive compensation, and appealing facilities.
• Improving the professional image, fostering a supportive environment, and offering career growth opportunities are crucial.
• Streamlining regulations and reducing paperwork are also identified as important factors.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the RN shortage in long-term care requires a multifaceted approach focusing on personnel, management, compensation, work environment, and professional development.
• Implementing these recommendations can help attract and retain qualified RNs to meet the growing needs of older adults.