Long-Term Care Nurses Needed |
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May 22, 2007
by AJ Fanter
Healthcare Programs Columnist
There's more good news for those interested in pursuing a nursing degree. According to the Final Report of the National Commission on Nursing Workforce for Long-Term Care, there are over 100,000 nursing staff positions available on any given day in the United States. In addition, based on projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing school graduates will continue to be in demand for years to come.
Long-Term Needs in Long-Term Care
Today's seniors are not only living longer, they are also expected to be the fastest-growing population segment between 2004 and 2014.
In addition to increased longevity and the current "Senior Boom," many older, experienced nurses are retiring. These three factors are driving a growing demand for nurses, particularly at long-term care facilities. In fact, the National Commission on Nursing notes that approximately 12 million Americans receive some form of long-term care services each year, roughly half of whom are 85 or older.
Working in Long-Term Care
Of those providing care in long-term care facilities, 54 percent have degrees in nursing or are nursing aides. However, the need for even more staff members with nursing degrees is substantial. The Commission reported that as of April 2005, over 96,000 care providers were needed to fill current vacancies - 28 percent of which are for nurses.
Thinking about a Degree in Nursing ?
As you can see, a degree in nursing offers considerable employment opportunity, but the job is challenging. According the to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those considering a career in nursing should be detail-oriented, caring, sympathetic, and have the emotional stability to cope with human suffering, emergencies, and other stresses.
If you'd like to help patients in long-term care facilities or other healthcare settings get and stay well, maybe it's time to consider getting your degree in nursing.
Sources
About the Author
AJ Fanter is a freelance writer based in Reno, NV.
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