In 2022, nurses were the number one profession with available jobs. During the next decade, around 275,000 nurses are needed to meet growing demands.
The COVID-19 pandemic created a large strain on several healthcare systems. One of those was nurses. Staffing shortages, low pay, and high patient volumes sparked several nurse strikes across the country.
One of those nurses’ strikes recently occurred in Minnesota. So, how can you prepare for the future and facilitate a healthier work environment? Luckily, we have a couple of solutions for you to combat staffing shortages for nurses, so keep reading on for more information!
Why Are Minnesota Nurses Striking?
In Minnesota, nurses on strike broke national headlines as nearly 15,000 nurses protested staffing shortages and low pay. The nurses’ strike affected seven hospitals and was considered the largest private-sector strike in that region.
Minnesota isn’t the only state affected by staffing shortages for nurses. Several states have petitioned for national help during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, the need for more nurses and healthcare workers has only worsened.
Reasons Nurse Strikes Happen
Approximately one in six hospitals nationwide have a nurse staffing shortage. Other reasons that healthcare workers and nurses are protesting include:
- Low pay
- High patient caseload
- Workplace culture
Low pay for nurses pushed several to start working as traveling nurses. There are a few downsides, like limited benefits and job stability. However, compared to staff nurses, traveling nurses can make nearly 30% more.
How To Prepare for Nurse Strikes
For many, low pay for nurses, high patient volumes, and inequal staffing have pushed many to their breaking point. The solution is to prepare for future strikes by addressing your specific problems.
If you have low staff numbers or are experiencing high burnout, you need temporary nurses. Temporary nurses alleviate staffing problems, reduce patient volumes, and decrease stress.
Staff Genius focuses on medical staffing solutions, including temporary or travel nurses, to help your clinic manage current shortages. We have several opportunities nationwide and can accommodate short or long-term staffing needs.
Is Paying Nurses More the Solution?
Nurses should receive fair compensation, and some medical facilities could offer better pay for part-time or full-time staff. Unfortunately, it is not the only solution to nursing strikes and shortages. In short, travel nurses are hired based on demand.
When demand drops, they move on, and hospitals are not left with high salary costs. Ultimately, it is not a cost-effective solution since hospital caseloads fluctuate annually. Staff nurses also have several other benefits not accounted for, including paid time off, job security, and health benefits.
Prepare for Nurse Strikes
Building a more robust work environment and staffing availability can help mitigate nurse strikes and reduce healthcare burnout. Minnesota was one example of how nurse strikes can inhibit quality patient care.
Instead, Staff Genius can help you. We focus on reliable, fast, and budget-friendly staffing solutions. We employ qualified travel nurses, local nurses, and aides to assist you during high patient volumes.
To get started, visit our site today and start preparing for the future.
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