Healthcare organizations must compete to attract and retain top talent, as staffing shortages have led to increased competition in this industry. How can an organization gain an advantage over its competitors in this area?
An Increased Demand for Nurses
Many people focus on the physician shortage in America, but this shortage extends beyond doctors. Nurses are also desperately needed. The nursing shortage has been an issue for some time now, and it isn’t abating. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the demand for registered nurses will grow by nine percent in the next five years. Many are looking to career support from Nursesmart to fill these open positions. The need for advanced practice nurses is even greater. Demand for these medical professionals is expected to grow by 45 percent. Every facility must find ways to attract these professionals and keep them happy and engaged. Failing to do so could lead to decreased patient satisfaction and a decrease in the quality of care.
Home Healthcare
Many seniors choose to age in place rather than moving in with family members or relocating to a senior living community. However, they often need help when living at home, and home health nurses and aides frequently provide this help. These providers offer patient-centered care in the client’s home. This trend has become more commonplace following the COVID-19 pandemic, as people have become more cautious about exposing themselves to germs unnecessarily. Nurses find they have more job opportunities, many in the community, thanks to this shortage.
Virtual Training
A nurse can advance their skills using virtual training methods. Virtual reality clinical simulations and education platforms powered by AI are two ways individuals can expand and advance their skills. They can continue working and participate in this training, gaining hands-on practice in the process. This technology enables them to explore a range of patient scenarios from the comfort of their home. These training tools are also found in many facilities, as medical practices are recognizing the importance of continuous learning. They see staff members want to advance their careers and are making it possible for them to do so easily.
Health and Wellness
Nurses are at risk of burnout just as doctors are. Healthcare organizations must recognize this and take steps to improve the health and wellness of their staff members. Those organizations prioritizing burnout prevention gain an edge over their competitors. Resilience training is one way to reduce the risk of burnout, and many organizations now offer mental health resources. Flexible scheduling is appreciated by all who work in this industry. These measures increase employee satisfaction while lowering turnover rates. Patients benefit when employees are happy and engaged, as they remain with the organization longer, improving continuity of care.
Pay and Benefits
Organizations often focus on pay and benefits when creating compensation packages for nurses. However, they also need to add certification support, funds for continuing education, flexible scheduling, and more to attract and retain top talent. These benefits should be offered to all nurses, regardless of their employment status.
The nursing shortage will likely continue in the coming years. Healthcare organizations must find creative ways to keep their nurses happy and engaged. The steps outlined above serve as a good starting point; organizations should consult with their staff to identify additional steps they should take. They can provide the best information regarding what is important to them.
