Dissipating the perfect storm - responses from nursing and the health care industry to protect the public's health

Abstract

This article summarizes the major national workforce reports and references the need for a tiered and comprehensive approach to avert the imminent nursing shortage crisis. Since 2002, commendable efforts have been made to increase supply, respond to current demand, and enhance the working environment to benefit recruitment and retention. Four areas are highlighted as exemplars of effort: supply and demand; work environment; new partnerships and public/private ventures; and patient-centered and essential patient-safe care.