National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)NCSBN Research Projects Significant Nursing Workforce Shortages and Crisis

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has just disclosed an enlightening study titled, “Examining the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Burnout & Stress Among U.S. Nurses.” The study provides a stark look at how the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected the U.S. nursing workforce, leading to stress, burnout, and a disturbing decline in their numbers.

The groundbreaking research has unveiled that approximately 100,000 registered nurses (RNs) exited the workforce during the pandemic, primarily due to stress, burnout, and retirements. A staggering 610,388 RNs reported plans to leave by 2027 for similar reasons. Particularly alarming is the high proportion of younger nurses, under 40 years of age, who share these intentions. In total, about one-fifth of RNs across the nation are predicted to depart the health care workforce.

Moreover, the study revealed that 62% of nurses had to shoulder a heavier workload during the pandemic. A significant portion reported feeling emotionally drained, burned out, and even at the end of their tether. These feelings were notably more pronounced among nurses with 10 or fewer years of experience, leading to an overall 3.3% drop in the U.S. nursing workforce within the last two years.

Licensed practical/vocational nurses, who generally cater to the most vulnerable populations in long-term care settings, have seen their numbers decline by 33,811 since the pandemic’s outset. Worryingly, this downward trend shows no sign of stopping.

The study also suggests that the overwhelming workloads and unprecedented burnout levels nurses experienced during the pandemic have been major catalysts accelerating these workforce trends. These issues threaten the future of the U.S. nursing workforce, particularly for younger, less experienced RNs. Moreover, disruptions in prelicensure nursing programs raise concerns about the supply and clinical readiness of new nurse graduates. The data suggest decreased practice and assessment proficiency among new entrants into the profession.

In light of these findings, NCSBN is urging a significant push to foster a more resilient and safe U.S. nursing workforce moving forward. Maryann Alexander, NCSBN Chief Officer of Nursing Regulation, emphasized the urgent need for concerted efforts by health care systems, policymakers, regulators, and academic leaders to enact solutions that will catalyze systemic change to address these challenges and safeguard patient care.

The findings and proposed solutions were presented at a panel discussion held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., including distinguished panelists from various health and academic sectors.