Week 1 Discussion This week’s graded discussion topic relates to the following Course Outcome (CO). Healthcare reform is a term that is ever present in our practice settings and will not disappear any time soon. Review the article below and answer the following questions. Buerhaus, P. I., Skinner, L. E., Auerbach, D. I., & Staiger, D. O. (2017). Four challenges facing the nursing workforce in the United States. ,

Abstract

Healthcare reform has been a recurring topic in the United States, with significant implications for the nursing workforce. This paper aims to analyze the four challenges facing the nursing workforce in the country, as identified by Buerhaus, Skinner, Auerbach, and Staiger (2017). These challenges include an aging workforce, the need for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), the demand for primary care, and the impact of healthcare reform on the workforce. Understanding and addressing these challenges is essential for ensuring a competent and sustainable nursing workforce that can effectively meet the healthcare needs of the nation.

Introduction

The nursing workforce in the United States is facing several challenges that require attention and action for the delivery of high-quality healthcare. Buerhaus et al. (2017) highlight four main challenges: an aging workforce, the need for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), the demand for primary care, and the impact of healthcare reform. This paper will analyze these challenges and their implications for the nursing workforce.

Aging Workforce

One of the significant challenges facing the nursing workforce is the increasing age of nurses. Buerhaus et al. (2017) observe that the average age of registered nurses (RNs) in the country has been increasing over the years. This aging workforce presents several concerns. First, as nurses age, they may experience physical and cognitive decline, which can affect their ability to provide safe and effective care. Second, the retirement of older nurses results in a loss of experienced professionals, making it challenging to replace their knowledge and skills. Third, the aging nursing workforce may lead to increased healthcare costs due to the high demand for healthcare services among the aging population.

To address the challenges associated with an aging nursing workforce, Buerhaus et al. (2017) propose several strategies. These include the implementation of age-friendly work environments, providing flexible work options, promoting work-life balance, and creating opportunities for knowledge transfer through mentoring and educational programs. These strategies aim to retain older nurses in the workforce and maximize their contributions while maintaining high-quality care.

Need for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)

Another challenge facing the nursing workforce is the need for more advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). APRNs, such as nurse practitioners, certified nurse-midwives, and clinical nurse specialists, play a crucial role in providing primary care and addressing the healthcare needs of the population. However, there is a shortage of APRNs in the United States, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

The shortage of APRNs can be attributed to several factors. First, the educational pathway to become an APRN requires additional training and certification beyond that of a registered nurse. This additional requirement may deter some nurses from pursuing advanced practice roles. Second, there are logistical and regulatory barriers that limit the practice of APRNs, such as restrictive scope of practice laws and collaborative practice agreements. These barriers can inhibit the full utilization of APRNs’ skills and expertise.

To address the shortage of APRNs, Buerhaus et al. (2017) recommend increasing the number of APRN education programs, expanding the use of telehealth, removing regulatory barriers, and providing incentives for APRNs to practice in underserved areas. These strategies can help increase the supply of APRNs and ensure that they are deployed where their services are most needed.

Demand for Primary Care

The demand for primary care services is increasing rapidly in the United States, driven by factors such as population growth, aging population, chronic disease prevalence, and increased access to healthcare through reform initiatives, such as the Affordable Care Act. However, there is a shortage of primary care providers, including physicians and nurses, to meet this growing demand.

Nurses play a crucial role in providing primary care services, particularly in underserved areas. However, the shortage of primary care providers limits the accessibility and affordability of primary care services, leading to delayed or fragmented care for many individuals.

To address the demand for primary care, Buerhaus et al. (2017) propose several strategies. These include expanding the role and scope of practice of APRNs, increasing the number of primary care residency programs, and implementing interprofessional collaborative models of care. By leveraging the skills and expertise of nurses, these strategies can help ensure that primary care services are accessible to all individuals, particularly those in underserved areas.