The Impact of COVID-19 on the Nursing Workforce: A National Overview

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant and negative impact on the nursing workforce. Immediate and long-term actions must be taken to mitigate the adverse effects of the pandemic. Understanding these effects in various contexts is essential to conduct research, implement innovative interventions, and create supportive policies. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the issues in the framework of six key areas of the HealthImpact Workforce Strategy Model, including K-12 and second-degree students, pre-requisite nursing education, and pre-licensure nursing education; upskilling the existing workforce; retention and well-being; and migration of nurses. We also discuss expanding advanced practice registered nursing scope of practice; crisis standards of care; and the impact of telehealth. Exemplars highlight the issues, and document action and innovation in the domains of workforce strategy, education, research, and policy in these challenging times.