From nationwide nursing shortages, which are affecting ASC recruitment and retention efforts, to two states giving nurse practitioners more independence, here are eight nursing updates for ASC leaders to know:
1. Nursing shortages are impacting ASCs nationwide, causing one Idaho practice to permanently close its doors.
2. Nursing shortages can impact patient safety, increasing the likelihood of patient death, according to a new study from New Jersey's largest healthcare worker union, Health Professionals and Allied Employees.
3. One-third of New Jersey nurses have left the bedside since 2020.
4. Having an "over COVID" attitude has helped one Ohio ASC to reestablish a full nursing team.
5. A proposed Kentucky bill would loosen restrictions for nurse practitioners, allowing them to practice without a collaborating physician.
6. A Missouri bill would allow nurse practitioners to practice without a physician present.
7. Hospitals have been raising nurse pay, making it potentially more difficult for ASCs to find and retain staff in a competitive market.
8. Over 30 percent of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse practitioners and nursing management reported feeling burned out in 2022.