Here are four statistics to know about the future of nursing from an infographic from Drexel University in Philadelphia.
- In 2020, the number of new licensed RNs is projected to be 17 percent lower than in 2002. This will be a compounded loss of licensed nurses due to mortality and retirement.
- This nursing shortage will occur at the same time that the U.S. population is expected to grow by 18 percent, or an additional 50 million people, by 2020.
- In 2000, 30 states experienced nursing shortages. By 2020, 44 states and the District of Columbia will likely experience shortages.
- These shortages can be attributed to a declining number of nursing school graduates, alternative job opportunities and an aging RN workforce.