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$100 Million Funding to Help Nursing Shortages

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September 19

$100 Million Funding to Help Nursing Shortages

The Biden-Harris Administration has taken a significant step to address healthcare workforce shortages by announcing nearly $100 million in funding aimed at expanding and strengthening the health workforce in the United States. This initiative, launched by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), targets several critical areas, including the growth of the nursing workforce, the expansion of primary care in underserved areas, and support for behavioral health services in communities impacted by the opioid crisis .

Key Areas of Investment

The nearly $100 million funding package is being distributed across multiple programs, each targeting specific needs within the healthcare sector:

1. Expanding the Nursing Workforce: Over $19 million has been allocated over four years to five schools, including two community colleges, to boost the nursing workforce in acute care and long-term care settings. The shortage of nurses in these areas has been a growing concern, especially post-pandemic, as healthcare facilities struggle to maintain adequate staffing levels. This funding aims to attract and train more nurses to fill these critical roles, ultimately enhancing patient care quality and safety.

2. Increasing Primary Care in High-Need Areas: Nearly $12 million is designated for three medical schools to increase the number of primary care physicians in rural, tribal, and medically underserved communities. These areas often face severe healthcare provider shortages, leading to inadequate access to primary care services. By funding programs that incentivize medical students to practice in these underserved regions, the administration hopes to bridge this gap and ensure more equitable healthcare access.

3. Addressing the Opioid Crisis and Behavioral Health: A significant portion of the funding—over $63 million—is directed towards addressing the behavioral health needs of children and families affected by the opioid crisis. This funding will support 32 organizations in training and increasing the number of community-based providers, such as peer support specialists and community health workers. These providers play a crucial role in offering mental health services and family support to children impacted by substance use disorders.

4. Integrating Mental Health into Pediatric Care: An additional $4.6 million will be provided to existing grantees to enhance mental health support in pediatric care. This includes providing mental health training for pediatricians and facilitating tele-consultations with psychiatrists, ensuring that children and adolescents receive real-time behavioral health support. This effort recognizes the growing need for mental health services among the youth, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing opioid crisis.

Addressing Healthcare Workforce Shortages

This funding initiative is part of the broader Health Workforce Initiative, launched by HHS to ensure that the country has a sufficient number of healthcare workers who are adequately supported. According to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, the initiative focuses on recruiting, training, and supporting the health workforce, particularly in underserved and rural communities where access to care is often limited. By investing in these areas, the administration aims to address workforce shortages that have long plagued the healthcare system .

The program’s multifaceted approach not only seeks to increase the number of healthcare professionals but also aims to enhance the quality of care provided. For instance, by focusing on behavioral health integration in pediatric care, the initiative acknowledges the importance of mental health support as a component of overall health. Additionally, by expanding the primary care workforce in high-need areas, it addresses the persistent issue of healthcare inequity, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their geographic location, have access to quality care.

The Impact on Healthcare Delivery

The infusion of nearly $100 million into the healthcare workforce is expected to have far-reaching impacts. For one, it will help alleviate the pressure on current healthcare workers, particularly nurses, who have been experiencing burnout and high levels of stress due to staffing shortages. By increasing the number of trained nurses in acute and long-term care settings, the administration aims to improve patient care outcomes and enhance the work environment for existing staff.

Moreover, increasing the number of primary care physicians in underserved areas will improve healthcare access and outcomes for populations that have traditionally been neglected. Early intervention and consistent access to primary care can prevent the escalation of health issues, reducing the burden on the healthcare system.

The focus on behavioral health, particularly in response to the opioid crisis, is also a critical component of this initiative. By training more community-based providers and integrating mental health support into pediatric care, the administration is taking a proactive approach to address the mental health needs of vulnerable populations, including children affected by substance use disorders.

Conclusion

The Biden-Harris Administration’s allocation of nearly $100 million to grow the health workforce represents a comprehensive effort to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare today. By focusing on expanding the nursing workforce, increasing primary care access in underserved areas, and enhancing behavioral health support, this initiative aims to create a more robust and equitable healthcare system. These investments are not just about filling gaps; they are about building a healthcare workforce capable of meeting the complex needs of the nation’s diverse population.

Kapi‘olani Nurses Locked Out as Hospital Calls Union’s Bluff

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September 16

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Kapi‘olani Nurses Locked Out as Hospital Calls Union’s Bluff

In a bold move, Kapi‘olani Medical Center has locked out its nurses amidst a heated labor dispute. This aggressive tactic comes after the Hawaii Nurses’ Association (HNA) threatened a strike over inadequate staffing ratios and alleged unsafe working conditions. The hospital is using a legal maneuver to preemptively strike back, bringing in temporary staff to replace the locked-out nurses, signaling their readiness to maintain operations without conceding to the union’s demands.

The hospital has taken a hard stance, stating that the nurses will not be allowed back until they accept the current terms unconditionally. This isn’t a negotiation for a new agreement—it’s a forced ultimatum. By bringing in temporary staff to fill the gaps, Kapi‘olani is attempting to maintain operations, showing they are willing to function without their regular nursing staff rather than conceding to the union’s demands.This lockout goes beyond a simple negotiation tactic, serving as a direct challenge to the union. By barring the nurses from returning to work, the hospital is effectively calling the union’s bluff, willing to weather the storm in order to avoid meeting their demands for safer staffing ratios and working conditions.

The Stakes for Nurses and Patients

The lockout has placed nurses in a precarious situation. Not only are they facing the loss of pay, but they also risk losing healthcare benefits— a significant blow for many who have dedicated themselves to patient care. The emotional toll on the nurses is compounded by their concern for the quality of patient care in their absence. Temporary workers, often unfamiliar with the hospital’s specific procedures and patients, may struggle to maintain the same level of care, potentially putting patients at risk.

Hospital’s Legal Maneuver

Kapi‘olani’s decision to lock out the nurses is a legal tool often used by employers to counter union strikes. By locking out the nurses before the strike can officially take place, the hospital shifts the power dynamic, forcing the union into a corner. This strategy not only prevents the nurses from gaining leverage but also signals to other hospitals and nursing unions that management is willing to play hardball in labor disputes.

Due to the lockout, Kapi‘olani Medical Center has stated that its 600 nurses are barred from returning to work until the union accepts the hospital’s contract offer without any conditions. In the interim, the hospital has brought in a temporary workforce, claiming it can continue providing uninterrupted healthcare services. According to Gidget Ruscetta of Kapi‘olani Medical Center, 75% of these temporary nurses have previous experience working at Kapi‘olani, suggesting they are familiar with the hospital’s operations.

The lockout also aims to force the union to make concessions, as nurses facing the loss of income and benefits may pressure their representatives to reach an agreement more favorable to the hospital. However, this tactic is not without risks. It could galvanize public support for the nurses, casting the hospital as the antagonist in a battle over worker rights and patient safety.

Nurses’ Response and the Union’s Stand

The HNA has condemned the lockout as an intimidation tactic designed to undermine the nurses’ legitimate concerns. Union representatives argue that the hospital’s focus on maintaining control over staffing levels compromises patient safety. By using temporary workers as a workaround, they assert, Kapi‘olani is prioritizing cost-saving measures over the well-being of both patients and its workforce.

Despite the lockout, the union remains steadfast, emphasizing that this dispute is about much more than pay. It’s a fight for safer working conditions, adequate staffing, and the ability to provide quality care without being stretched to the limit. They warn that the hospital’s refusal to address these core issues will have lasting consequences, not just for the nurses, but for the broader healthcare system that relies on frontline workers.

What This Means for the Future

Kapi‘olani’s lockout is a high-stakes gamble with wide-reaching implications. If the hospital succeeds in holding firm against the union’s demands, it could embolden other healthcare institutions to take a similarly hardline approach in labor disputes. However, if public opinion swings in favor of the nurses, the hospital could find itself on the losing side of a PR battle, potentially leading to a backlash that impacts its reputation and bottom line.

The outcome of this standoff will likely set a precedent for how labor disputes in healthcare are handled going forward. For now, Kapi‘olani Medical Center has made its position clear: they are willing to endure a lengthy lockout rather than give in to the union’s demands. Whether this move will break the nurses’ resolve or fortify their determination remains to be seen.

The situation remains tense, and as both sides dig in, the question remains: how long can Kapi‘olani operate without its core nursing staff, and at what cost to patient care and public perception?

Is Nursing More Toxic Than Ever? Nurses Think So.

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September 15

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Is Nursing More Toxic Than Ever? Nurses Think So.

We’ve heard the expression “nurses eat their young,” but things have arguably gotten even worse over the last couple years. Nurses are being asked to do more with fewer resources and less time than they were previously, which has led to unprecedented rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout. A recent study shows more nurses are thinking about leaving the profession than ever before with the U.S. headed for a shortfall of half a million providers in just three years.

All of this is putting added pressure on nurses, which can lead to a toxic working environment. So, has nursing permanently changed for the worse? Here’s what providers are saying:

Yes, nursing eats the young and discards the old. You have to be on your toes and on guard all the time. The least minor mistake can turn into a big deal quickly. I became a nurse back in the 80’s, there was a shortage of nurses then and nothing has changed 30 plus years later. Now I see why. If I had known them what I know now I would have chosen anything but nursing.

Linda

I truly think most of healthcare has failed so many of us. The toxicity is everywhere and is allowed by the culture of the institution. Yes, The Culture of the Institution!!!!

Denise

I work 2 nursing jobs, long-term care and in a medical clinic… I do not feel that the nursing industry is toxic… if a nurse is only in it for the money and benefits, then that individual is toxic. I do my job for two reasons: I care about helping people and the wage. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t doing it for the money. But you need to care and show compassion for people… if you want to be a good nurse.

Deb

I’ve been a behavioral health nurse for 30 years and the most toxic part of my job was never patients. It was management.

Lori

It’s very stressful and we often feel unappreciated, but I wouldn’t call it toxic. I’m fortunate to work with a great group of nurses, docs, and CNAs in an outpatient surgery center.

Kate

Lazy CNAs.

Disrespectful coworkers.

Not being a team player.

Management might suck.

Man!! So many reasons nursing can be and is a toxic environment.

Terrica

Is there any other industry where “find your own replacement if you’re sick & can’t come in” is the norm?!?!

Shelley

Forty years ago, we coined the term, “Nurses eat their young,” meaning established nurses disrespected new grads, often belittling them instead of nurturing and training etc.?

Today I find it very alarming that nurses, of all people, dispute Covid, refuse the vaccine etc.?

What on earth has happened to basic education? Microbiology, DNA sequencing, super computers. Nursing above any other profession should be unbiased cognitive scientific thought process…. 😳

Deb

Management fake respects you. Families and patients view us as abuse targets with zero repercussions and no matter what you do or how hard you work it’s never quite enough.

Bradley

I love being a nurse, but I have been bullied at most of my jobs, now I’m in a position to have and enforce a zero-tolerance policy for bullying. Trying to do my part to help make other nurses experiences a more positive one than mine was.

Patty

Yes. Nurses are expected to be robots and never get sick or have emotions or have emergencies (which is absolutely absurd considering that we are a population most exposed to contagious illnesses).

Short-staffed 24/7 with most supervisors unwilling to help at the bedside when staffing ratios become unsafe. It’s treated like a customer service industry since reimbursement became based on satisfaction scores, so there is pressure from both ends (patients and management) with nobody to back you up when you set boundaries, which are absolutely necessary in the profession.

And nurses aren’t encouraged to report physical abuse from lucid patients/family even though it’s happening more often than ever.

Brittanie

We’re not treated with the respect we deserve… If we were, we’d have safe staffing ratios, fair pay, breaks every shift, and administration would actually listen to what we say and implement.

Mark

Well, it depends on who is running the show. Basically, if you have poor management then yeah, it’s toxic.

Kristen

Fortunately, not the one I work at now. But my previous jobs, hell yes. You’re overworked, expected to take care of way too many patients who really need your full attention to observe changes in their status and need treatment, pulled in way too many directions from too many people and don’t have the time or help to do it all. It makes you feel like a terrible nurse.

Tara

Yes. Sometimes it could be just one single person to ruin the entire morale on the unit. Especially if that person is management.

Leah

Nurses are given tremendous responsibility and then a huge workload and judged harshly for doing the best they can to please some very unhappy sick people.

Maria

Absolutely! Management’s unrealistic expectations, management that is disconnected from bedside nursing, entitled and demanding patients, physical demands of the job. Nursing has become a “show up and shut up” environment.

Julie

Thanks to everyone who shared their opinions online.

Hawaii Nurses Face Tense Labor Dispute as Strike Looms

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September 12

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Hawaii Nurses Face Tense Labor Dispute as Strike Looms

Hawaii’s healthcare industry is facing significant turbulence as the Hawaii Nurses’ Association (HNA) and Kapi‘olani Medical Center continue their contentious contract negotiations. At the heart of this dispute are issues that have long plagued the nursing profession nationwide: unsafe staffing levels, worker burnout, and retaliatory practices. The potential fallout is a looming strike that could leave the hospital scrambling to fill critical care gaps, with the nurses alleging unfair labor practices and unsafe working conditions.

The Conflict

Negotiations between the HNA, representing approximately 600 nurses, and Kapi‘olani Medical Center have been ongoing for months, yet key issues remain unresolved. The primary point of contention is the hospital’s staffing policies, which the union argues place an undue burden on nurses and jeopardize patient care. In particular, HNA has been advocating for stricter nurse-to-patient ratios, especially in high-stress areas like intensive care units, where the stakes are highest.

Nurses claim that the current staffing model, which uses a “staffing matrix” proposed by Kapi‘olani, lacks the necessary protections to ensure safe patient care. The matrix approach, while offering flexibility, allows management to adjust staffing levels based on fluctuating needs. According to the nurses, this leads to chronic understaffing, forcing them to work long hours without adequate support. HNA is pushing for firmer staffing ratios that cap the number of patients assigned to each nurse, a common demand in healthcare labor disputes as nurses fight to prevent burnout and safeguard patient safety.

Threat of a Strike

If negotiations fail, the nurses are prepared to initiate an “unfair labor practice” strike. This type of strike, which focuses on protesting the hospital’s alleged retaliatory practices, could commence as early as Friday. The union has filed a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), accusing Kapi‘olani of intimidating nurses who filled out staffing concern forms, a legal process that allows healthcare workers to formally report unsafe conditions.

Rosalee Agas-Yee, president of HNA, emphasized that the strike is not solely about pay or benefits, but about creating a safe working environment for nurses and patients alike. “The retaliation continues,” Agas-Yee said, referencing the hospital’s threats of an indefinite lockout, which would prevent striking nurses from returning to their jobs once the strike concludes. This tactic, the union argues, is a form of intimidation aimed at undermining collective bargaining efforts.

Hospital’s Response

Kapi‘olani Medical Center has strongly denied these allegations, with Chief Operating Officer Gidget Ruscetta expressing confidence in the hospital’s legal standing. Ruscetta reiterated that the hospital is committed to reaching an agreement with the union, citing “productive conversations” during recent meetings. However, if the strike proceeds, Kapi‘olani has indicated that it will hire temporary staff to maintain operations and ensure patient care is not compromised.

“We are confident in our legal position and have always aimed to negotiate in good faith,” Ruscetta stated. “We remain committed to ensuring our nurses have the resources they need, but we must also ensure we can be flexible to meet the changing needs of our patients.”

Broader Implications

This labor dispute is not an isolated incident. Across the United States, hospitals and nursing homes have faced growing pressure to address staffing shortages that were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses, who bore the brunt of the healthcare crisis, have increasingly demanded changes to working conditions to prevent burnout, improve patient outcomes, and reduce turnover rates.

According to a report by the American Nurses Association, nearly half of all nurses have considered leaving the profession due to overwhelming workloads and inadequate staffing . These concerns are echoed in Hawaii, where the state’s aging population has put additional strain on an already stretched healthcare workforce. The HNA’s demands reflect the growing frustration among healthcare workers who feel that their concerns are being ignored, even as the public recognizes the vital role nurses play in patient care.

Moving Forward

Negotiations between HNA and Kapi‘olani Medical Center are set to continue, with both sides expressing a desire to reach an agreement. However, the threat of a strike looms large, and the outcome will likely have lasting repercussions for Hawaii’s healthcare landscape. Whether the two parties can find common ground remains to be seen, but the stakes are high. If no agreement is reached by Thursday, Hawaii could see hundreds of nurses walking off the job, putting immense pressure on a healthcare system already struggling to recover from the pandemic’s impact.

For now, all eyes remain on the negotiation table, with the hope that both sides can broker a deal that ensures safer working conditions for nurses and better care for patients across Hawaii.

Newlywed Nurse Melissa Jubane Found Dead, Neighbor Arrested for Murder

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September 9

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Newlywed Nurse Melissa Jubane Found Dead, Neighbor Arrested for Murder

The tragic story of Melissa Jubane, a 32-year-old nurse from Beaverton, Oregon, took a heartbreaking turn when she was found dead on September 7, 2024, just days after returning from her wedding in Hawaii. Jubane, a nurse at St. Vincent Hospital, had gone missing on September 4 when she failed to show up for her morning shift. Concerned coworkers and family immediately contacted the police, who initiated a welfare check at her apartment. Finding no sign of her and receiving no response from her phone, investigators quickly listed her as a missing person.

Jubane had recently returned to Oregon with her husband, Bryan Llantero, after tying the knot on August 24 in a ceremony on the island of Oahu. The newlyweds had been in a long-distance relationship for a decade, often traveling between Oregon and Hawaii to spend time together. After their wedding, the couple returned to Oregon on September 1, spending Labor Day together before Bryan left to visit family in Washington. Melissa stayed behind in Beaverton to be closer to her work, but her sudden disappearance left her family, friends, and coworkers deeply concerned.

As the investigation progressed, authorities zeroed in on Melissa’s 27-year-old neighbor, Bryce Johnathan Schubert. After gathering sufficient evidence, police arrested Schubert on September 7 and charged him with her murder. While details of how he became a suspect remain unclear, his arrest brought some closure to the desperate search for Melissa, though it also confirmed the community’s worst fears.

Melissa’s remains were recovered, but police have withheld further information as they continue their investigation. In a statement, the Beaverton Police Department extended their condolences to Melissa’s family and expressed gratitude to the community members who had aided in the search.

The discovery of Melissa’s body just days after her wedding has left her family and friends devastated. Her mother-in-law, Imelda Llantero, described how the family rushed to Oregon to assist in the search when Melissa first went missing. She expressed how deeply Bryan was impacted by the tragedy, stating that the family had grown close to Melissa over the years and that Bryan had always been happy with her. Imelda shared that the newlyweds were excited to start their life together, but their hopes were tragically cut short.

Jubane’s friends also spoke out, organizing search efforts in the days leading up to the discovery of her body. Close friends described her as a person with a “big heart” who loved helping others, both in her personal life and through her work as a nurse. Her colleagues at St. Vincent Hospital echoed these sentiments, remembering her dedication and compassion toward her patients.

A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help support Melissa’s grieving family, quickly raising over $56,000 as of early September. The outpouring of support from the community demonstrates the impact she had on those around her. While the investigation continues, the focus now shifts to the legal process as Bryce Schubert faces murder charges.

As friends and family mourn the loss of a young woman with so much to offer, the community of Beaverton is left grappling with the sudden and violent nature of Melissa’s death. Her story has sparked conversations about safety and trust within neighborhoods, and the case has become a stark reminder of the unpredictability of violence.

Melissa’s legacy as a nurse, newlywed, and beloved friend will not be forgotten. As her family awaits justice, they cling to the memory of her kindness, her dedication, and the love she shared with her husband Bryan. The legal proceedings against Schubert will continue, and while the healing process will be long and painful, Melissa’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Night-Shift Nurses

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September 9

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The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Night-Shift Nurses

Being a nurse means you are in one of the most demanding professions that exist today. Undoubtedly, the field is challenging, even more so for night-shift nurses. The irregular hours, lack of natural daylight, and disrupted sleep cycles make it difficult to maintain a balanced lifestyle. For night-shift nurses, finding effective strategies to care for both their physical and mental health is essential for personal well-being and to provide quality patient care.

This guide offers practical self-care tips designed to help night-shift nurses manage the pressures of their work, stay healthy, and thrive in their roles.

Prioritize Sleep Quality

You don’t just need sleep; you need quality sleep.

Quality sleep is crucial for all nurses, but especially for those working night shifts. The body’s natural circadian rhythm is disrupted, making it harder to achieve restful sleep. It is vital to create an environment where you can sleep soundly. Simple changes can make a big difference.

Use blackout curtains that block sunlight to prevent the sunlight from disturbing your slumber, and use earplugs or white noise machines to eliminate noise. Avoid consuming caffeine close to bedtime and use relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, to wind down before sleep. These steps will improve the quality of sleep, leading to better physical and mental health.

Continuing Education for Career Growth and Mental Wellness

When you feel stuck in one place, it takes a toll on your mental health. Night-shift nurses, in particular, may feel stagnant due to their irregular hours. However, pursuing higher education can provide a sense of accomplishment.

Online MSN programs offer night-shift nurses the flexibility they need to continue their education while managing their demanding schedules. Programs, such as an MSN nurse educator degree, allow nurses to work toward leadership roles, which brings greater job satisfaction and financial rewards. The ability to advance without sacrificing work-life balance can help nurses feel more in control of their careers, which is crucial for maintaining good mental health.

Healthy Eating on the Night Shift

Nutrition plays a vital role in keeping energy levels stable and preventing fatigue during long night shifts. Night-shift nurses often fall into the trap of grabbing fast food or sugary snacks, which can lead to energy crashes and weight gain.

To avoid this, it’s important to plan meals and snacks in advance. Preparing healthy options like salads, whole-grain wraps, nuts, and fruits will help sustain energy levels throughout the shift. Staying hydrated is equally important, as dehydration can lead to fatigue and lack of focus. Always have a water bottle handy, and avoid sugary drinks or excessive caffeine, which can contribute to sleep problems and energy dips later.

Incorporate Regular Exercise into Your Routine

Physical activity is essential for managing stress, improving energy levels, and maintaining overall health. However, night-shift nurses may struggle to find time for exercise. Incorporating short, efficient workouts into the day is key to staying fit and reducing fatigue.

You don’t need to spend hours working out; a 20-minute home workout before or after a shift can make a significant difference. Incorporating activities like yoga or stretching can also improve flexibility and reduce stress. Even walking during breaks or taking the stairs at work can contribute to daily physical activity. Regular exercise will help night-shift nurses feel more energized and better equipped to handle the demands of their jobs.

Set Boundaries Between Work and Personal Life

One surefire way to prevent burnout is by setting clear boundaries between work and personal life. Night-shift nurses are often asked to take on extra shifts or extend their hours, but constantly saying yes can lead to exhaustion. Learning to say no without feeling guilty is important for preserving personal time and mental well-being.

After a shift, take time to unwind and disconnect from work. Creating a routine to relax after a night shift—whether it’s a warm bath, reading, or spending time with family—can help shift the mind away from work-related stress. Maintaining this balance allows night-shift nurses to recharge and be more effective in their roles.

Take Breaks to Recharge During Your Shift

Night-shift nurses often work long, demanding hours that can be both physically and mentally exhausting. Don’t hesitate to take regular breaks during shifts. These will help you stay focused and energized.

During breaks, it’s important to step away from the workspace and engage in activities that help recharge your energy. Simple actions like deep breathing exercises, stretching, or even taking a short walk can reduce stress and prevent burnout. These quick recharges also help nurses return to their duties with improved concentration, ensuring that they provide the best care possible throughout their shift.

Mental Health Support and Stress Management

Working night shifts can take a toll on mental health, especially as the lack of regular sleep and social isolation begin to build up. Night-shift nurses are at a higher risk of stress, anxiety, and depression, making it essential to have mental health support systems in place.

One of the best ways to manage stress is by practicing mindfulness or meditation. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on breathing or engage in guided meditation can drastically reduce feelings of stress. Nurses should also make use of peer support by talking to colleagues who understand the unique challenges of night-shift work. When necessary, professional mental health support should be sought to prevent more serious issues like burnout or depression.

Stay Connected with Family and Friends

Night-shift nurses often find it difficult to maintain regular social connections due to their irregular working hours. However, staying connected with loved ones is essential for emotional well-being and preventing feelings of isolation.

To maintain these relationships, it’s important to communicate openly about your schedule and make time for family and friends when possible. Plan activities or meet-ups that fit into your free time, whether it’s a quick coffee with a friend or a virtual call with family. Maintaining these social bonds can help alleviate feelings of loneliness, which are common among night-shift nurses, and provide much-needed emotional support.

For night-shift nurses, self-care is not just about maintaining energy levels; it’s about fostering long-term resilience and well-being in an incredibly demanding profession. By integrating small but impactful habits into daily routines, night-shift nurses can not only protect their physical and mental health but also enhance their overall job satisfaction and quality of life. Prioritizing self-care allows them to navigate the unique challenges of night shifts with confidence and clarity, ensuring they remain strong, healthy, and fulfilled both at work and in their personal lives.

33% of Nurses Quit in First Two Years

Steven Briggs

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September 2

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Nursing is one of the hardest jobs in the country, and the first few years can be a wake-up call to aspiring providers trying to find their place in the healthcare industry. Many new nurses quickly realize that nursing isn’t for them, while others wind up in jobs that make them want to quit.

Studies show 33% of new nurses leave the workforce within the first two years largely due to poor work-life balance, unsafe working conditions, and the emotional strain that comes with caring for patients and dealing with family members. The U.S. desperately needs more nurses, but many young providers won’t stay in the workforce if they can’t adjust to their new role.

More data shows that the nursing profession is facing a significant crisis, with a high rate of turnover among nurses, particularly those in their early careers. Approximately 100,000 registered nurses (RNs) left the workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic, and by 2027, nearly 900,000 nurses are expected to leave due to stress, burnout, and retirement. Among these, a substantial number are nurses under the age of 40, with an estimated 188,962 younger RNs considering leaving the profession. The impact is especially pronounced among nurses with ten or fewer years of experience, contributing to a 3.3% decline in the nursing workforce over the past two years .

Moreover, the turnover rate for nurses can be as high as 37%, depending on the region and specialty. More than half of nurses leave their job within the first two years, driven by factors such as pandemic-related burnout, high workloads, feeling undervalued, and inadequate compensation. This turnover rate is significantly higher than the median job tenure across all industries, which is around four years. The stress and emotional toll of the profession have been cited as major factors, with many nurses reporting feelings of depletion, emotional exhaustion, and burnout!

So, what can new nurses do to prepare for the job? Reddit user u/DynamicSploosh shared a few tips to help nurses avoid leaving the profession after a few years.

Nursing is an identity or personality trait.

The author argues that new nurses who go into the job believing it’s their calling or that they were born to be a nurse can be easily taken advantage of, as their colleagues and managers may guilt them into taking more shifts or working overtime when they’re not ready.

“Nursing is a job. It can be a great job, but it’s still a means to support yourself,” they write. “It’s not something to weave into your entire life at the expense of your time, your health or your relationships.”

Nursing is a 24/7 profession.

That doesn’t mean nurses need to work non-stop but the facilities they work at do. The good news is that there will be someone there to pick up where you left off.

“When you arrive on the ward, nurses have been there for an entire shift before you. When you leave your shift, there will be nurses to take over for you,” the author writes.

“There will never be enough minutes or hours to do every last thing that needs to get done and that is ok. You need to be alright with handing over what is unfinished. I’ve seen so many new nurses run themselves into the ground because they thought they had to do it all.”

Just do your part, don’t do it all.

Nursing means caring for patients, not caring about them.

It may sound insensitive, but the author argues it’s important for nurses to set boundaries with their patients. You might meet an amazing patient and form a sacred bond and that’s okay, but it’s good to keep some distance when things take a turn for the worst.

“You see pain, suffering, fear and loss. These feelings are so strong and heavy that if you hold onto them, they will eventually flatten your emotional tether,” they warn. “Your patient needs a clinician first and foremost, whatever friendship you can offer them after that is admirable but by no means owed. Even the most experienced nurses grapple with this and it’s something to keep in the back of your mind at all times.”

Nurses care for patients in all sorts of ways, so don’t get stuck in a role if it’s not a good fit.

It may be tempting to settle for your current position, but there are lots of jobs for nurses out there, so don’t be afraid to try something new if you’re not getting the support you need.

“Don’t get stuck on a ward you hate, doing work you despise with a team that doesn’t support you, just because you think it’s the only way to be in the profession,” they argue.

You can always go back to school or get additional certifications to take your career to the next level.

“Loyalty to specific hospitals or wards can be dangerous if you can’t see that you are being treated as another body that they throw into the meat grinder. You’ll stay thinking it’s an opportunity when it’s actually just a sink hole for your mental and physical health. Keep an eye out for the difference.”

Nursing educators aren’t always right.

The author advises nurses not to take what their educators say to heart if they feel they are being mistreated or disrespected on the job.

“I had the misfortune of being under one particular educator that took it upon themselves to make students feel inadequate at every turn. It made us feel anxious, unworthy and unsupported. This can make you want to leave the profession after a single shift,” they warn.

But you may be one step away from meeting a caring, supportive mentor who will help you rise to the occasion. If you’re struggling in school or on the job, it may not be that you can’t learn or that you’re not cut out to be a nurse. There could be something wrong with your learning environment.

“Don’t let some jaded and impatient person who forgets what it felt like to be a student make you feel like less. Trust yourself first and foremost and constantly strive to improve,” they add.

Don’t lift patients.

They teach you this in school and during training, but many nurses still make the mistake of trying to lift patients on their own or by hand, which can lead to lifelong injuries.

“It can take one nurse in a rush asking you to shift someone,” they write, but you should always use the proper equipment/lifting technique just to be safe – even if you’re facing time constraints.

Remember that patients are 100% heavier now than they were in the 90s. A single injury could derail your entire career.

Don’t be afraid to leave.

Even though you’ve poured countless hours and thousands of dollars into your nursing career, the author says it’s best to trust your instincts if you’re not happy. Maybe you just need a break or a change in scenery, such as another facility or ward.

“Find what you love, what you want to do and go for it. And if that’s not nursing, be prepared to walk away from it.”

“Time Off? What’s That?” Nurses on What They Do When They’re Not at the Hospital

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July 21

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“Time Off? What’s That?” Nurses on What They Do When They’re Not at the Hospital

Nursing can be one of the most time-consuming professions on the planet. 12-hour shift? No problem. But all those long hours can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Balancing work and your personal life isn’t always easy, so we asked millions of nurses what they do with their time off – and we’re taking notes:

Riding horses is the best stress relief

-Jennifer

Go to the gym and hang with my wife and daughter. Working out is the best stress relief for me personally and hanging with my family always centers me and makes me realize what’s important in life.

-Landon

Absolutely nothing! Just sit.

-Sally-Ann

Video gaming is a great way to disassociate ☺️

-Kaleb

Dishes/laundry/chores and fossil hunting with the bf ?

-Katrina

Camping, taekwondo, Jiu jitsu, and strength training. I just went back to working out after not taking the time last year. My mental health has suffered greatly this past year due to everything COVID. I am now selfish with my time and I don’t allow myself to be bullied into working more than I mentally can handle.

-Aimee

Stress about going back to work.

-Stacey

I make cups. On my days off.

-Karla

Hike, bike, climb, run, exercise class, have lunch with girlfriends, travel on weekends, paint, pottery. We all need to fill our lives outside of the hospital with things that build us up.

-Carmen

I paint.

-Dean

I am a runner ?‍♀️. I am unbelievably blessed to have my other half, who puts me in a position to *have* to do nothing. I work, sleep, run, eat…He does almost everything else, at his complete leisure with absolutely no pressure from me. There are very few *have-to’s*. It is how we choose to live our lives, in a way that maximizes peace and pleasure.

-Rebecca

I do pottery classes each Tuesday.

-Michelle

Order out, watch a movie, read a book, study, just relax – it’s a day from everything cleaning, laundry, cooking, exercising, doing errands.

-Mary

Now that I’m retired after working over 40 years: SLEEP whenever I want, EAT nutritious foods whenever I want, BREATHE clean fresh air outdoors on a hiking trail, and spend endless hours of massive disproportion to everything else taking care of my poor old “nurse feet.” When I started nursing: size 8.5 Narrow. When I retired: size 10 Wide. Arch support and heel cups with full sole cushioning are now mandatory, even to go to the bathroom.

-Deb

Usually screen work calling me.

-Daniel

I sleep and rest. I don’t get enough time to recuperate after four 12-hour night shifts and 2 days off. Things are so short the hospital is begging for us to come in even on the days we have off. If I have a good day off when I feel I can stand up, I dig in my garden.

-Tara

I smoke cannabis and that really helps me get the most out of my days off.

-Marcia

I drive by the hospital with my middle finger out the window! ??

-Alana

Seriously, this is my first vacation in 2 years, and I have thought about going back to work because I have no idea what to do.

-Dorida

I plant things to eat ??‍♀️?

-Ruth

Sleep, eat, and Netflix. Be a couch potato all day.

-Sothary

I sleep and when I wake up…it’s already time for the next shift.

-Annie

You might not have as much time off as you’d like, but it’s important to make the most of it. Remember to look after your health as much as possible when you’re not at the office. Try to find an activity or hobby outside of work that has nothing to do with your life at the hospital. This will give you something to look forward to when you’re on the floor for hours on end. It also helps you establish an identity outside of work.

Thanks to everyone who shared on Facebook. These responses have been edited for length and clarity.

“Supermodel Granny” Drug Extends Lifespan in Lab Animals

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July 19

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“Supermodel Granny” Drug Extends Lifespan in Lab Animals

A drug has been shown to extend the lifespan of laboratory mice by nearly 25%, offering promising implications for human aging. Treated mice, nicknamed “supermodel grannies” for their youthful appearance, were healthier, stronger, and developed fewer cancers than their untreated peers. Researchers from the MRC Laboratory of Medical Science, Imperial College London, and Duke-NUS Medical School focused on interleukin-11, a protein that increases with age and contributes to inflammation. Human trials are underway to evaluate the drug’s safety and potential anti-aging effects.

The quest for longevity is an age-old pursuit, and recent advances in aging research have uncovered promising strategies to manipulate the aging process. Scientists have known that reducing food intake can extend the lifespan of laboratory animals, but new research is delving into the molecular mechanisms behind aging.

Researchers performed two key experiments. In the first, mice were genetically engineered to lack interleukin-11. In the second, 75-week-old mice (equivalent to 55-year-old humans) were treated with a drug to remove interleukin-11 from their bodies. The results, published in Nature, showed a lifespan increase of 20-25%, with treated mice exhibiting improved muscle function, healthier fur, and reduced frailty.

Professor Stuart Cook, one of the researchers, expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the strength of the data despite the potential skepticism. He believes the drug could have transformative effects if successful in humans and is willing to try it himself.

However, the big unanswered questions remain whether the drug will have the same effect in humans and if any side effects will be tolerable. Interleukin-11 plays a role in early human development, and its absence can lead to issues requiring surgical correction. Despite these concerns, the researchers believe interleukin-11 drives aging later in life and are hopeful about the drug’s potential.

The drug, a manufactured antibody targeting interleukin-11, is also being tested in patients with lung fibrosis. Preliminary data suggests it is safe to take. This research is part of a broader effort to find anti-aging treatments, alongside studies on metformin and rapamycin.

Professor Cook argues that a drug-based approach to extending life is more practical than severe calorie restriction, which is challenging to maintain long-term. Professor Anissa Widjaja from Duke-NUS Medical School highlights the potential relevance of these findings to human health, noting similar effects observed in human cells and tissues.

While the research shows promise, there are challenges, including the lack of patient data and the high cost of producing such drugs. Nonetheless, these findings mark a significant step towards understanding and potentially extending healthy human aging.

Nurses at Rady Children’s Hospital Vote to Strike Amid Contract Dispute

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July 17

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Nurses at Rady Children’s Hospital Vote to Strike Amid Contract Dispute

San Diego, CA — Nurses at Rady Children’s Hospital have voted to authorize a strike from July 22 to July 24, following months of unsuccessful contract negotiations. The decision comes after the United Nurses of Children’s Hospital (UNOCH), the Teamsters union representing over 1,500 nurses, announced the vote on July 11. The union’s leadership delivered a 10-day notice to the hospital, as required by federal labor law, signaling their intent to walk off the job

Reasons for the Strike

The primary issues at the heart of the dispute include demands for fair wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions. Union leaders argue that despite Rady Children’s Hospital’s operating revenue reaching $1.6 billion in 2023, the hospital continues to underpay its nurses. Many nurses reportedly struggle with the high cost of living in San Diego and have to work multiple jobs to make ends meet.Katie Langenstrass, Executive Director of UNOCH Teamsters Local 1699, stated, “Rady Children’s Hospital has forced our hand. Our members are passionate about their work and their patients. However, the hospital’s persistent undervaluation of their dedication and skill has left us no choice”.

Impact on Patient Care

The strike is expected to have significant implications for patient care at San Diego County’s only pediatric hospital. Union officials have highlighted that the high turnover rate among nurses, driven by better-paying opportunities elsewhere, disrupts patient care and places undue strain on the remaining staff. Marie Wahl, a registered nurse at Rady Children’s Hospital, emphasized that the strike is about more than wages; it is about ensuring consistent and quality patient care.

Hospital’s Response

Rady Children’s Hospital administration had proposed a three-year contract that would increase the average nurse’s salary by 22% over the period, but this offer was rejected by the union. The hospital has yet to comment on the impending strike, but it will likely lead to longer wait times, rescheduled appointments, and potential disruptions in critical care services.

Next Steps

With the strike date set, both the union and hospital administration have a limited window to negotiate and potentially avert the walkout. Previous last-minute negotiations in similar situations have sometimes resulted in breakthroughs, preventing strikes from taking place.As the strike date approaches, the San Diego community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that balances the needs of the nurses with the imperative of providing uninterrupted, high-quality care for the children who depend on Rady Children’s Hospital.

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