Category: Facilities

In 2025, Vitawerks conducted a comprehensive survey of 233 healthcare facilities across the U.S. to better understand the pressing challenges they face, from staffing and compliance issues to operational inefficiencies. The findings reveal what’s holding facilities back and how flexible staffing solutions like those offered by Vitawerks are helping healthcare leaders stay agile, compliant, and cost-effective.

Facilities Operating Below Full Capacity

Post-pandemic, many healthcare facilities are still struggling to reach full operational strength. Surveyed facilities reported operating at just 72% of full capacity, even though their desired capacity average was 90%.

What’s Causing the Gap?

• 47 facilities (20%) cited low reimbursement rates
  
• 45 facilities (19%) pointed to reduced patient demand
  
• 39 facilities (17%) blamed high labor costs
  

These factors are pushing facilities to seek flexible, cost-effective staffing strategies. Rather than overinvesting in full-time hires amid fluctuating patient volumes, many are choosing on-demand solutions like Vitawerks to support a more responsive workforce model.

Why Facilities Choose vitawerks

As operational pressures increase, healthcare organizations are turning to Vitawerks to manage staffing needs without compromising care quality. Here’s how:

1. Recruitment and Retention

Staffing challenges continue to dominate the industry. In the survey:

• 59% of respondents said recruitment and retention were their top issues.
  

Turnover remains high across healthcare:

• Hospital turnover sits at 18.3% (NSI Nursing Solutions, 2025)
  
• Skilled nursing facilities report 82% turnover (Mission Care Collective)
  
• Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) see 35% RN turnover and 39% surgical tech turnover
  

Facilities need a reliable way to fill gaps quickly while maintaining care standards. Vitawerks helps by offering a scalable, on-demand Talent Marketplace where facilities can post shifts instantly and tap into a vetted network of over 300,000 healthcare professionals nationwide.

• 146 respondents (63%) said Vitawerks helped them with staffing and scheduling
  
• 62 facilities (27%) said the platform helped them access qualified professionals directly
  

Facilities now rely on Vitawerks not just during high turnover, but also to stay compliant and fully staffed during periods of unpredictable demand.

2. Credentialing and Compliance Support

Compliance remains a time-consuming burden for facility administrators. But with Vitawerks:

• 26 facilities (11%) reported that the platform improved their credentialing workflows.
  

Every professional on Vitawerks is pre-credentialed, ensuring that licenses are active, documentation is current, and skillsets match facility needs.

Through Talent Fusion, Vitawerks centralized workforce management system, facilities can:

• Monitor credentialing and licensing
  
• Automate compliance reminders
  
• Receive alerts before licenses expire
  
• Streamline internal onboarding and verification processes
  

This automation not only improves regulatory compliance but also reduces manual tracking and administrative overhead.

3. Reducing Administrative Burden

Managing shift coverage manually is time-consuming. Thanks to Vitawerks:

• 24 facilities shared that the platform helped them save time and money on administrative work
  

Facilities can post shifts directly to the Talent Marketplace, eliminating the need for emails, calls, or agency outreach. Once a shift is filled, managers are notified with:

• The professional’s credentials
  
• Work history and experience
  
• Any other essential details
  

Facilities also gain access to performance data, including:

• Shifts filled
  
• Average fill time
  
• Pay rates per shift
  
• Favorite workers for future bookings
  

This data-driven approach helps facilities build a trusted external workforce that improves continuity of care and streamlines shift fulfillment.

4. Managing Labor Costs Efficiently

Labor costs remain a top concern in healthcare. According to the survey:

• 11 facilities (5%) said Vitawerks helped them optimize labor costs
  

Vitawerks gives organizations the flexibility to:

• Adjust staffing based on real-time demand
  
• Rely on full-time or internal float pools during slow periods
  
• Tap into external professionals only when necessary
  

This approach keeps expenses in check while maintaining full compliance with patient care standards and nurse-to-patient ratios.

Adapt to Staffing Needs with vitawerks

Healthcare facilities across the U.S. are successfully using Vitawerks Talent Marketplace to:

• Fill shifts fast
  
• Improve compliance
  
• Streamline credentialing
  
• Reduce turnover impact
  
• Lower administrative costs
  

With Vitawerks technology-powered platform, facilities can take a proactive approach to workforce management, saving valuable time and resources while enhancing patient care.

1. The Future of Healthcare Staffing: Trends Beyond 2024

As healthcare facilities face an increasingly unpredictable landscape, the future of staffing is shifting toward flexibility and agility. Facilities can no longer rely solely on full-time staff to meet fluctuating patient demand. Vitawerks is at the forefront of this transformation, providing a Talent Marketplace that connects healthcare facilities with a nationwide network of pre-credentialed professionals.

By leveraging predictive analytics, Vitawerks helps facilities forecast staffing needs, optimize labor costs, and fill shifts before gaps impact patient care. Whether it’s staffing telehealth services, ambulatory centers, or long-term care facilities, Vitawerks ensures facilities remain agile and responsive to evolving workforce trends.

2. How Technology Is Transforming Healthcare Workforce Management

Technology is no longer a luxury in healthcare, it’s a necessity. Vitawerks uses automation, centralized dashboards, and intelligent scheduling tools to simplify workforce management. Facilities can post shifts directly to the Talent Marketplace, receive instant notifications when shifts are filled, and track key metrics such as fill times, pay rates, and staff performance.

Beyond scheduling, Vitawerks streamlines credentialing, ensures compliance with licensing requirements, and provides real-time reporting. By integrating technology into everyday workforce operations, facilities reduce administrative burdens, improve operational efficiency, and focus more on delivering high-quality patient care.

3. Credentialing and Compliance in Healthcare: Common Pitfalls and Fixes

Credentialing and compliance are critical, yet time-consuming tasks for healthcare administrators. Many facilities struggle with expired licenses, incomplete documentation, and labor-intensive verification processes. Vitawerks addresses these challenges through automated credentialing workflows.

All professionals on the platform are pre-credentialed, and Vitawerks’ system monitors licenses, sends alerts for renewals, and simplifies onboarding. This ensures facilities stay compliant while reducing administrative work, lowering risk, and maintaining patient safety. With Vitawerks, managing credentialing becomes a seamless, automated process rather than a constant headache.

4. Reducing Burnout Through Smarter Staffing Models

Burnout is a persistent challenge in healthcare, often driven by overworked staff and inconsistent scheduling. Vitawerks helps facilities adopt smarter staffing models by providing access to on-demand professionals who can fill critical gaps.

By balancing workloads and ensuring shifts are filled efficiently, Vitawerks reduces the strain on existing staff. Facilities can leverage data from the platform to forecast peak periods, distribute shifts fairly, and prevent burnout. This not only improves employee satisfaction but also strengthens retention, ensuring facilities maintain a skilled and motivated workforce.

5. Data-Driven Workforce Management: What Facilities Need to Know

In today’s healthcare environment, decisions must be guided by data. Vitawerks offers robust analytics and reporting tools that provide insights into staffing patterns, labor costs, and performance metrics. Facilities can track fill rates, monitor overtime, and identify trends that impact operational efficiency.

With this information, administrators can make informed decisions about scheduling, budgeting, and workforce planning. By taking a data-driven approach, facilities can optimize staffing, reduce costs, and improve continuity of care, all powered by Vitawerks’ platform.

6. Balancing Labor Costs Without Compromising Patient Care

Managing labor costs while maintaining quality care is a constant challenge for healthcare facilities. Vitawerks helps solve this dilemma by offering flexible staffing solutions that allow facilities to scale up or down based on real-time demand.

Facilities can rely on internal staff during slower periods and tap into Vitawerks’ Talent Marketplace only when necessary. This approach keeps labor costs in check without sacrificing care quality or compliance. By aligning staffing levels with actual demand, Vitawerks enables facilities to operate efficiently while maintaining high standards for patient care.

7. Top Benefits of On-Demand Healthcare Staffing Platforms

On-demand staffing platforms like Vitawerks are revolutionizing the way healthcare facilities manage their workforce. With instant access to a network of over 300,000 qualified professionals, facilities can fill shifts quickly, reduce administrative tasks, and ensure compliance.

Vitawerks allows administrators to post shifts, review professional credentials, and track workforce performance, all from a single platform. This flexibility helps facilities adapt to fluctuations in patient volume, cover for unexpected absences, and maintain seamless care delivery. On-demand staffing isn’t just a temporary solution, it’s a strategic approach to modern workforce management.

8. How Healthcare Facilities Can Improve Recruitment & Retention

Recruitment and retention remain top concerns for healthcare facilities, with high turnover affecting both costs and patient care. Vitawerks helps facilities streamline hiring, onboarding, and scheduling, ensuring access to qualified professionals while reducing turnover risks.

By providing a flexible work model, data-driven insights, and automated compliance support, Vitawerks enhances the employee experience. Facilities can track satisfaction metrics, anticipate staffing gaps, and maintain a loyal, engaged workforce. With Vitawerks, recruitment and retention become manageable, predictable, and aligned with operational goals.

Ready to Solve Your Staffing Challenges?

Vitawerks is more than just a staffing solution; it’s a strategic partner in your facility’s long-term success. Whether you’re looking to build a pool of trusted professionals, reduce labor costs, or simplify credentialing, Vitawerks has the tools you need to scale your workforce without sacrificing quality.

Sign up today and discover how Vitawerks can help you address your top workforce challenges with speed, flexibility, and confidence.

Introduction

In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, the significance of diversity within nursing cannot be overstated. Diverse nursing teams, empowered by effective nurse staffing solutions, play a pivotal role in delivering patient-centered care that respects and responds to individual cultural needs. At VitaWerks, we recognize that embracing diversity is not just a moral imperative but a strategic advantage that leads to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

The Importance of Diversity in Nursing

Diversity in nursing encompasses the inclusion of individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, races, genders, socioeconomic statuses, and orientations within the nursing workforce. This diversity mirrors the patient populations served, enabling nurses to provide culturally sensitive care that acknowledges and respects individual differences.

A diverse nursing team brings a wealth of perspectives, experiences, and skills, fostering an environment of empathy and understanding. Patients often feel more comfortable and understood when cared for by individuals who can relate to their unique experiences, leading to increased trust and satisfaction.

Challenges to Achieving Diversity in Nursing

Despite the recognized benefits, achieving diversity in nursing presents several challenges:

• Unconscious Bias: Implicit biases during recruitment and hiring processes can inadvertently exclude qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds. 
• Limited Outreach and Recruitment: Insufficient efforts to engage with diverse communities can result in a lack of representation in the applicant pool. 
• Retention Issues: Diverse nursing staff may face challenges in career advancement and may encounter workplace cultures that do not support inclusivity. 
• Lack of Cultural Competence Training: Without adequate training, healthcare providers may struggle to effectively engage with patients from diverse backgrounds. 
• Systemic Barriers: Socioeconomic disparities and educational inequities can limit access to nursing education for underrepresented groups. 
• Unsupportive Work Environment: A lack of inclusive practices can create unwelcoming environments for diverse nursing professionals. 
• Implicit Bias in Patient Care: Healthcare providers’ unconscious biases can impact the quality of care delivered to patients from diverse backgrounds. 
• Limited Language Support: Insufficient language support for patients with limited English proficiency can hinder effective communication and access to healthcare services. 

Enhancing Cultural Competence

Cultural competence, the ability to understand, communicate with, and effectively interact with people across cultures, is essential in nursing. Diverse nursing teams contribute to this by bringing firsthand knowledge of different cultural practices and beliefs, enabling the delivery of care that respects patients’ cultural contexts.

At VitaWerks, our nurse staffing solutions prioritize cultural competence by connecting healthcare facilities with nurses who possess the necessary cultural insights and language skills to serve diverse patient populations effectively.

Improving Communication and Language Support

Effective communication is the cornerstone of quality healthcare. Language barriers can lead to misunderstandings, misdiagnoses, and decreased patient satisfaction. Diverse nursing teams often include multilingual professionals who can bridge communication gaps, ensuring that patients fully understand their health conditions and treatment plans.

By leveraging nurse staffing solutions that emphasize language proficiency, healthcare facilities can enhance patient-provider communication, leading to better adherence to treatment plans and improved health outcomes.

Addressing Health Disparities

Health disparities, differences in health outcomes among different population groups, are a persistent challenge in healthcare. Diverse nursing teams are uniquely positioned to address these disparities by providing culturally appropriate care and advocating for underserved communities.

Nurses who understand the specific needs and challenges of marginalized populations can build trust and rapport, leading to more effective care and reduced health disparities. VitaWerks’ nurse staffing solutions aim to connect healthcare facilities with such compassionate and culturally aware professionals.

Promoting Inclusion and Trust

Inclusion in healthcare settings fosters a sense of belonging among both patients and staff. When patients see themselves represented in their caregivers, it enhances trust and comfort, encouraging open communication and engagement in their care.

Creating inclusive environments through diverse staffing not only benefits patients but also contributes to a positive workplace culture where all staff members feel valued and respected.

Enhancing Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Diverse teams bring a variety of perspectives and problem-solving approaches, which can lead to more innovative and effective solutions in patient care. Exposure to different viewpoints encourages critical thinking and adaptability among nursing staff.

By incorporating diverse experiences and knowledge bases, nursing teams can develop comprehensive care plans that address the multifaceted needs of patients.

Supporting Career Advancement and Growth

Equitable opportunities for career advancement are crucial for retaining diverse nursing staff. Providing access to mentorship, professional development programs, and leadership roles ensures that all nurses can thrive and contribute meaningfully to healthcare delivery.

VitaWerks supports the growth of nursing professionals by offering resources and opportunities that empower them to advance their careers while delivering high-quality care.

Embracing Diversity in Recruitment and Retention

Healthcare facilities can enhance diversity by implementing inclusive recruitment strategies, such as outreach to diverse communities and unbiased hiring practices. Retention efforts should focus on creating supportive environments that recognize and celebrate diversity.

Nurse staffing solutions like those provided by VitaWerks play a vital role in these efforts by connecting facilities with a diverse pool of qualified nursing professionals committed to delivering exceptional patient care.

Conclusion

Diversity in nursing is more than a goal; it’s a necessity for delivering equitable and effective patient care. By embracing diversity through strategic nurse staffing solutions, healthcare facilities can enhance cultural competence, improve communication, address health disparities, and foster inclusive environments that benefit both patients and staff.

VitaWerks is dedicated to supporting healthcare organizations in building diverse and competent nursing teams that reflect the communities they serve. Together, we can create a healthcare system where every patient receives the respectful and personalized care they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How does diversity in nursing impact patient care?

A1: Diversity in nursing leads to improved patient care by fostering cultural competence, enhancing communication, and enabling personalized care that respects patients’ cultural backgrounds and preferences.

Q2: What are nurse staffing solutions?

A2: Nurse staffing solutions are services or platforms that connect healthcare facilities with qualified nursing professionals to meet staffing needs, often emphasizing flexibility, efficiency, and diversity.

Q3: How can healthcare facilities promote diversity in their nursing staff?

A3: Facilities can promote diversity by implementing inclusive recruitment practices, providing cultural competence training, supporting career advancement for underrepresented groups, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

Q4: What role does VitaWerks play in enhancing diversity in nursing?

A4: VitaWerks offers nurse staffing solutions that prioritize diversity by connecting healthcare facilities with a wide range of qualified nursing professionals from various backgrounds, thereby enhancing cultural competence and patient care.

Q5: Why is cultural competence important in nursing?

A5: Cultural competence is crucial in nursing as it enables healthcare providers to deliver care that is respectful of and responsive to the cultural and linguistic needs of patients, leading to better health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Q6: How can diverse nursing teams address health disparities?

A6: Diverse nursing teams can address health disparities by providing culturally appropriate care, understanding the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities, and advocating for equitable healthcare access and resources.

The shortage of nurses in the United States is at a critical point, causing major challenges for the healthcare system. It affects patient care the most. It’s important for policymakers, healthcare administrators, and the public to understand how nursing scarcity impacts patient outcomes.

 

The Various Impacts of The Nursing Shortage

Acuity levels within hospitals

With the increasing demand for hospital care, there’s a need for a more skilled nursing workforce. Advancements in medical technology and shifts in patient care approaches have raised the level of complexity in hospital cases. Consequently, there’s a greater need for specialized nursing skills and expertise, making the effects of the nursing shortage more severe.

 

Aging Populace and Labor force

The increasing number of elderly Baby Boomers needing more healthcare creates a challenge. Since 55% of nurses are over 50, there’s a crisis due to aging. More retirements and higher demand strain the system, worsening patient care because of the nursing shortage.

 

Workload and working conditions

Cost-cutting measures in healthcare have resulted in fewer staff and mandatory overtime. Though meant to save money, these actions cause stress for nurses. This stress, along with heavy workloads and poor conditions, dissuades people from becoming or staying nurses, worsening the nursing shortage and lowering patient care standards.

 

Effects On Patient Care

1. Decline in care quality: Nurses facing excessive workloads may suffer from burnout, resulting in more medical mistakes, jeopardized patient safety, and less favorable results.
2. Limited accessibility: The scarcity of nurses restricts healthcare availability, especially in underserved regions, worsening health inequalities and endangering vulnerable communities.
3. Economic consequences: The shortage of nurses escalates healthcare expenses due to staffing difficulties in hospitals, causing inefficiencies and prolonging patient hospital stays.

 

Approaches To Alleviating the Deficit in Nursing Staff

Strengthening Nursing Education

• Recruiting and Keeping Faculty

Offering attractive pay, training opportunities, and mentorship programs can help keep qualified nursing instructors. Also, new teaching methods like online classes and simulations can ease the pressure on clinical training.

 

• Increasing Education Capacity

`Partnerships between nursing schools, healthcare providers, and policymakers can expand nursing programs, including opening new schools and branches in areas with few services.

 

Improving Workforce Development

• Keeping Nurses in Their Jobs

By using proven staffing methods, cutting down on overtime, and creating supportive workplaces, hospitals can retain more nurses. Plus, investing in ongoing training and career growth can encourage nurses to stay.

• Diversifying the Nursing Field

Encouraging diversity in nursing schools and practices can help fill job gaps and address health inequalities. Programs like scholarships and debt relief can attract more diverse candidates.

 

Using Technology

• Telehealth and Remote Monitoring

Using tools like telehealth and remote monitoring can make care more available and ease the workload on nurses. This way, they can help patients without being limited by location.

• Working Together with Other Healthcare Pros

Teamwork between nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and others can improve care coordination and make better use of resources. Training and models that promote teamwork can encourage better communication and collaboration.

 

Policy and Support

• Government Help

Policymakers need to prioritize funding for nursing education, research, and workforce programs. By advocating for policies that improve licensing, scope of practice, and payment systems, they can create a better environment for nurses.

• Raising Awareness

Educating the public about nursing’s importance in healthcare can drum up support for workforce efforts. Working with communities, advocacy groups, and healthcare organizations can build support for tackling the nursing shortage nationwide.

 

Advantages Of Pursuing a Career In Nursing

Nursing is a fulfilling job with numerous advantages. Here are six key reasons to choose nursing as a career:

Here are simplified reasons to consider becoming a nurse:

1. Make a difference: Nurses help people during tough times and play a vital role in their recovery.
2. Job security: Nursing is in high demand worldwide, ensuring job opportunities after graduation.
3. Good pay and benefits: Nurses earn a decent salary, with an average of $80,010 annually in the US.
4. Flexible schedules: Nurses can choose from various work hours and days, allowing for work-life balance.
5. Continuous learning: Nursing involves constant learning about new technologies and treatments, keeping the job interesting.
6. Supportive community: Nurses form a close-knit community, providing strength and teamwork.

 

Opportunities For Nursing in The Upcoming Years

Exciting prospects lie ahead for nursing professionals as new opportunities emerge in the field:

1. Incorporation of Technology: Nurses will utilize advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and telehealth to improve patient care and streamline healthcare delivery.
2. Specific Job Functions: Increased demand for specialized care will allow nurses to focus on areas such as geriatrics, mental health, and critical care.
3. Leadership and Support: Nurses will have the chance to assume leadership positions and advocate for policies that prioritize patient well-being.
4. Opportunities in Global Health: Nurses can participate in global health initiatives, addressing healthcare challenges worldwide.
5. Advancements in Education: The need for nurse educators will drive innovation in teaching methods and online learning platforms.
6. Community and Public Health Engagement: Nurses will remain essential in promoting community health and addressing preventive care and health disparities.
7. Interprofessional Care Models: Interprofessional collaboration will grow, enabling nurses to work closely with other healthcare professionals for comprehensive patient care.
8. Research and Evidence-Based Approaches: Nurses will have more opportunities to engage in research, contributing to advancements in healthcare knowledge and practices.

 

CONCLUSION

The nursing shortage in the U.S. presents challenges for patient care and workforce sustainability due to factors such as faculty shortages and an aging population. Collaboration among policymakers, educators, and healthcare administrators is essential to address this crisis. Investing in education, retention strategies, and technology is key to strengthening the nursing workforce. Future opportunities in technology integration, specialized roles, and global health provide avenues for nurses to thrive and adapt.

The nursing profession is steeped in symbolism, with icons that permeate various aspects of the field, from pins and badges to hospital vehicles. Each of these symbols are loaded with both culture and historical meaning that most HCPs may not even be aware of. This exploration delves into the narratives behind some of the most prevalent nursing symbols, shedding light on their origins and meanings.

Caduceus: A Symbol with Ancient Roots

At the forefront of nursing symbolism is the Caduceus, a distinctive emblem featuring two snakes entwined around a staff with wings. Its origin dates back to Greek mythology, where Hermes, the Messenger of the Gods, wielded this symbol. Interestingly, the Caduceus has ancient counterparts in various civilizations, including Egypt, Rome, and India. The earliest depiction is believed to be from Ancient Mesopotamia, where the Sumerian goddess Ningishzida held a similar staff around 4000 BC.

The Caduceus found its way into modern nursing in 1902 when the US Army Medical Corps adopted it as their icon. Since then, it has become synonymous with the nursing profession at large, representing the entirety of nursing rather than a specific aspect or department.

The Staff of Asclepius: A Singular Symbol of Healing

Often confused with the Caduceus, the Staff of Asclepius also features a snake coiled around a staff. However, it distinguishes itself by having only one snake and lacks the wings at the staff’s tip. In Greek mythology, Aesculapius, the God of healing, owned this symbol. Adopted as the new symbol for the American Medical Association in 1910, the Staff of Asclepius signifies a more direct connection to the healthcare profession. It has become an official logo for prominent institutions like the World Health Organization.

The Enigma of Snakes in Nursing Symbolism

A recurring motif in nursing symbols is the presence of snakes. Despite their associations with poison and danger, snakes have a long history of being linked to healing and healthcare. This paradox finds roots in historical instances, such as Moses using a staff with a bronze serpent to heal snake bites. Ancient civilizations utilized snake venom as remedies for ailments like leprosy and smallpox. Even today, viper venom is employed in treating conditions like hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. The snake, with its dual nature of danger and healing, emerges as a poignant and fitting symbol for nursing.

The Red Cross: A Beacon of Humanitarian Care

The Red Cross stands as an iconic symbol in healthcare, universally recognized on first aid kits, ambulances, and various medical settings. Its origins, however, trace back just 150 years when Henri Durant created the symbol for the Geneva Conventions. During wartime, healthcare professionals treating wounded soldiers displayed the Red Cross to signify their non-combatant status. Over time, charitable medical organizations embraced it as a symbol of impartiality, representing equal care and treatment for all, irrespective of background or affiliation.

The Lamp: Illuminating the Path of Modern Nursing

Though less common than the aforementioned symbols, the Lamp still serves as the official logo for the International Council of Nurses for a good reason. Florence Nightingale, hailed as the Mother of Modern Nursing, introduced this symbol during her service in the Crimean War. Working tirelessly through the night, Nightingale used an oil lamp to navigate dark hospital corridors. Gradually, the lamp came to symbolize selflessness, compassion, and the intangible qualities of a nurse. Today, it is often held by nursing graduates as they take their Nurses Pledge, honoring the legacy of Nightingale and the principles she championed.

A Deeper Understanding: Honoring Nursing’s Rich Heritage

While knowledge of these symbols won’t transform a novice into an expert nurse overnight, it fosters a deeper appreciation for the collaborative evolution of nursing. Each symbol carries centuries of history, embodying the collective wisdom, innovation, and dedication that have shaped the nursing profession. By understanding and embracing these symbols, nurses pay homage to their predecessors, ensuring that the stories and memories of those who paved the way are forever preserved.

In conclusion, the symbols adorning the nursing profession are not mere adornments but vessels of profound historical and cultural significance. They serve as a constant reminder of the noble roots and enduring values that define the field of nursing. As nurses continue to don these symbols in their daily practice, they become living embodiments of a tradition that spans millennia, carrying forward the torch of healing and compassion.

In the dynamic realm of nursing, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are indispensable contributors to healthcare. For LPNs in Pennsylvania, the regular renewal of their licenses is a crucial aspect of their professional journey. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the LPN license renewal process in the Keystone State, offering step-by-step insights for a seamless application experience.

• Eligibility Requirements for LPN License Renewal

Before initiating the LPN license renewal process in Pennsylvania, understanding the eligibility criteria is imperative. The state mandates LPNs to renew their licenses every two years, requiring the completion of 30 hours of approved continuing education (CE) courses. These courses are designed to keep LPNs abreast of the latest developments in the field, enhancing their skills and knowledge. Maintaining records of completed CE courses is essential, as documentation may be requested by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing during the renewal process.

• Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

LPNs in Pennsylvania must complete 30 hours of approved continuing education during the renewal period. Choosing CE courses from accredited providers is vital for a smooth renewal process. These courses cover diverse topics, from nursing techniques to patient care and legal ethics. Opting for courses aligned with professional interests and career goals not only ensures license maintenance but also empowers LPNs to provide optimal patient care.

• Renewal Notification

The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing takes a proactive approach by sending renewal notices to LPNs several months before their license expiration. Maintaining up-to-date contact information with the board is crucial to receive timely notifications. These reminders serve as cues for LPNs to commence the renewal process, allowing ample time to complete necessary steps and avoid last-minute complications.

• Online Renewal Through PALS

The most convenient method for LPN license renewal in Pennsylvania is through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS). Creating an account on PALS provides a user-friendly interface that streamlines the renewal process, saving time and reducing paperwork. This secure and efficient online method allows LPNs to monitor the application status and access the renewed license once the process is complete.

• Renewal Application Process

Upon logging into the PALS account, LPNs can commence the online license renewal application. This user-friendly application guides applicants through each step, requiring accurate input of personal and contact information. Careful attention to detail is crucial, as discrepancies or errors may delay the renewal process. The application also involves payment of the renewal fee, the exact amount of which can be verified on the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing’s official website.

• Background Check

While not mandatory for all LPNs, the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing may request a background check as part of the renewal process. Clear instructions will be provided if this step is necessary. Background checks aim to ensure applicants meet specific character standards, emphasizing the trustworthiness of LPNs in providing lifesaving care services.

• Verification of Information

Before submitting the LPN license renewal application, a thorough review of provided information is essential to ensure accuracy. Verifying CE records and confirming completion of the required 30 hours of continuing education from approved providers helps avoid complications, ensuring a smooth renewal process.

• Renewal Processing Time

Commencing the renewal process well in advance of the license expiration date is advisable. This proactive approach allows sufficient processing time, minimizing the risk of disruptions to nursing practice. Processing times for LPN license renewals in Pennsylvania may vary, emphasizing the importance of avoiding last-minute applications.

• Confirmation of Renewal

Upon successful completion of the LPN license renewal application, applicants receive confirmation from the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. This confirmation serves as evidence that the renewal has been approved, and the license remains in good standing. In many cases, LPNs can print a new copy of their license directly from the PALS account for immediate access.

• Record Keeping

To ensure a seamless and stress-free LPN license renewal process, maintaining copies of all related documents is crucial. Records should include confirmation of CE course completion, payment receipts, and any documentation related to the renewal process. These records serve as valuable references and may be required for verification purposes.

In summary, renewing an LPN license in Pennsylvania is a manageable process when eligibility requirements are met, and the outlined steps are followed. Remaining informed and organized throughout the renewal process ensures uninterrupted continuation of a nursing career. Staying updated on evolving requirements and processes, timely submission of renewal applications, and compliance with Pennsylvania’s nursing regulations are essential for LPNs aiming to deliver high-quality care to patients.

For the latest information on LPN license renewal in Pennsylvania, visit the official website of the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing or contact them directly.

Conclusion

LPNs are indispensable healthcare providers in the nursing field, and license renewal is a critical aspect of their professional journey. Adhering to Pennsylvania’s regulations is paramount, and this guide emphasizes understanding eligibility requirements, continuing education mandates, and the renewal process. By following these steps, LPNs can navigate the renewal process seamlessly, ensuring the maintenance of their licenses and allowing them to focus on delivering compassionate and skilled care to patients in need. Stay informed, stay organized, and continue providing top-notch care as a renewed LPN in Pennsylvania.

Temporary staffing has risen to prominence in the healthcare industry. To ensure that you are linking with the best providers in the market, read on.

Why has temporary staffing become so popular?

Right now, there is a healthcare worker shortage that has affected all of America. Facilities do not have enough staff to accommodate rising and fluctuating demand for healthcare services. They cannot thoughtlessly bring in more full-time employees, because they might be overstaffed and incur needless labor costs. Temporary staffing allows HCPs to dynamically adapt to the current healthcare market.

If there is a sudden surge of demand for healthcare services, due to an epidemic or an accident that left a large number of people injured, they can bring in additional help for a couple months, weeks, or even a single shift. If someone has to pull out of work suddenly, they can even fill these vacancies in short notice. This is why nurse staffing agencies and staffing apps have only continued to grow and expand.

How do I choose the best staffing services?

You want to make sure you are taking on the best temporary staffing options available to you. Regardless of the situation, healthcare facilities need to take extra lengths to provide the best care services possible. Settling for the cheapest staffing services, or the first option you see on your search would be a disservice to the patients who have placed their trust in you. Before you settle on a specific staffing service, these are factors worth considering:

Word-Of-Mouth

This may seem like a rudimentary consideration, but it is well worth highlighting. You want to be sure that the staffing service you use is well-regarded in the industry. A prior history of excellence or success is reassuring for a facility looking for proven solutions. Check reviews on third-party websites or their Google/Apple App pages, to make sure you are reading impartial feedback. You can also reach out to healthcare professionals who work in other facilities, to get another perspective on the service you intend to use.

Pricing

You want to be sure that you are working with an agency or an app that is as transparent as possible, with regards to expenditures. A reliable institution will be upfront with all the costs and charges a facility will incur, instead of obscuring them or hiding them until it is time to pay. While some facilities will just charge you per shift, others will charge an additional platform fee or ask you to pay for additional services you may not need. Do your due diligence, and read how pricing is structured and what fees you will incur, before you sign up with a service.

Customer Service

You want to work with a platform with a responsive customer service department. Sometimes, a discrepancy may appear or scheduling errors occur. Nothing is perfect, and this can easily be mitigated by a strong customer support team. Good teams will pick up your calls instantly, listen carefully to your issues, and work diligently to resolve any issues as soon as possible. Check their features list, to see whether or not they prioritize good customer service. Apps like VitaWerks even provide 24/7 customer support, to ensure that their users run into minimal hitches or delays that cannot be resolved in a timely manner.

Go out there!

Though the shortage looms over the industry, the next few years of healthcare also show promise. Demand for healthcare services is only continuing to grow.. Every facility needs a base of reliable full-time staff, but temporary staffing offers reinforcements. Instead of supplanting them, your regular workers are supported with per-diem employees. This provides them the support they need to weather the storm of spikes in demand or sudden vacancies. With the right approach and preparation, facilities are in a good position to prosper and thrive within the coming years.

Explore VitaWerks, an AI-enabled healthcare staffing platform to connect nurses with the best healthcare facilities.

Before the 1870s, Black people were not legally allowed to attend nursing programs. Fast-forward to the present, and up to 11% of nurses in America identify as African American. This was all made possible by the sacrifices and contributions made by countless Black nursing pioneers, across centuries of healthcare history. This February, Black History Month offers us the chance to highlight the trailblazers who shaped the healthcare industry with their hard work, intelligence, and bravery. In educating ourselves on the past and present challenges faced by Black nurses and patients alike, we can eventually reach a deeper understanding with one another.

When did we start observing Black History Month?

Carter G. Woodson proposed the earliest version of Black History Month as a period of highlighting and celebrating the historic contributions of Black men and women across the country. By learning about the unique challenges faced by African American individuals, and how they overcame them to change the status quo for the better, Woodson wished to “shift race relations” towards a more positive place.. Although the format has changed, this spirit of greater tolerance and understanding has remained integral to Black History Month to this day.

How does Black History Month connect with nursing history?

Even before the advent of traditional nursing programs, Black healthcare providers have always existed. Harriet Tubman (1822-1913) braved the frontlines to provide wound care and food to injured Union soldiers, during the Civil War. Sojourner Truth (1797-1883) offered care services while advocating passionately for abolition and women’s rights. Most notably, she was the first Black American to win freedom for herself and her infant daughter, in court. Both rose from abusive slave backgrounds to uplift their communities, provide care to the wounded and sick, while inspiring countless African Americans as symbols of freedom and peace.

Though there were always exceptional Black healthcare providers, Black Americans were not allowed to attend formal nursing programs to achieve licensure, until 1845. Mary Eliza Mahoney explicitly pursued a nursing career in order to break barriers and promote racial equality across the nation. Even in the face of severe discrimination, Mahoney thrived as a private nurse for 40 years. Phillips School in Boston, the school she attended, became the very first integrated program in the entire country.  It is not an understatement to say that her bravery changed the entire healthcare industry for the better.

These are just some of the most prominent examples of exceptional Black nurses changing the course of healthcare history, for the better. Omitting Mahoney or Tubman from a comprehensive “history of nursing” would render it illegitimate. Without the contributions of these pioneers, 1/10th of the current nursing workforce would not be legally allowed to practice. In many ways, celebrating Black History Month is celebrating the history of nursing in America.

Why does celebrating black history month still matter?

 Though the nursing industry has progressed a great deal since the 1800s, discrimination continues to be a problem. According to a survey from the  National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing (the Commission), 63% of its correspondents had experienced racist acts from either their peers or superiors. Narrowing things down further, as much as 92% of the African American correspondents reported to be victims of racial abuse and harassment.

HCPs are not the only affected parties, as Black patients are repeatedly affected by racism in healthcare. In more extreme examples, they are completely withheld from treatment altogether on the grounds of discrimination. Even when they are able to secure a care provider, implicit bias or explicit racism has a direct link with worse health care outcomes and inaccurate diagnoses. One of the most infamous examples of this is the misconception that black people have “thicker skin” or are “less receptive to pain.” This has no grounds on actual science, and is primarily rooted in deeply racist assumptions held in the 1920s. As a direct result, Black patients may end up receiving an inadequate amount of pain medication or anesthesia, which can lead to complications with (potentially) fatal consequences.

Conclusion

Black History Month is an invitation to learn about the history of nursing’s history. Instead of existing as a bundle of racist assumptions in their head, people can learn and experience the rich history and culture of African Americans in nursing. By highlighting the different contributions, struggles and triumphs of Black nurses in the past and present, we can move closer to a place of mutual understanding and tolerance. It is not the singular solution to racism and discrimination in American healthcare, but it is a step in the right direction.

Psychiatric units within hospitals play a crucial role in providing specialized care for individuals grappling with acute mental health challenges. This comprehensive guide delves into the workings of these units, their significance, the types of conditions they address, and the treatment modalities they offer.

What is a Psychiatric Unit?

Psychiatric units (or psych units for short) are places in healthcare facilities that specialize in intense care for patients who suffer severe mental health conditions. These units are staffed with a multidisciplinary team comprising psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and psychiatric technicians. Their collective expertise enables them to assess, diagnose, and formulate tailored treatment plans for patients with various psychiatric conditions.

Conditions Treated in Psych Units:

Psychiatric units cater to a wide spectrum of mental health disorders, including but not limited to:

• Depression: Severe and persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
• Anxiety Disorders: Conditions characterized by excessive worry, fear, or panic attacks.
• Bipolar Disorder: Mood disorder marked by alternating episodes of mania and depression.
• Schizophrenia: Chronic disorder involving distorted thinking, hallucinations, and delusions.
• Substance Use Disorders: Addiction to drugs or alcohol often co-occurring with mental health issues.

Treatment Modalities:

Psychiatric units employ diverse treatment modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. These may include:

• Medication Management: Prescription and monitoring of psychotropic medications to alleviate symptoms and stabilize mood.
• Individual Therapy: One-on-one counseling sessions with a therapist to address personal challenges and promote insight.
• Group Therapy: Participating in group sessions facilitates peer support, social skills development, and sharing coping strategies.
• Psychoeducation: Educating patients and their families about mental health conditions, treatment options, and coping mechanisms.
• Recreational Therapy: Engaging in recreational activities such as art, music, or physical exercise to enhance well-being and self-expression.

Admission Process:

Patients may be admitted to a psychiatric unit through various channels, including:

• Emergency Department Referrals: Individuals in acute crisis may be brought to the hospital’s emergency department for evaluation and subsequent transfer to the psych unit if deemed necessary.
• Physician Referrals: Primary care physicians or psychiatrists may refer patients for inpatient psychiatric evaluation and treatment.
• Voluntary Admission: Patients experiencing mental health crises can voluntarily seek admission to a psych unit for stabilization and treatment.
• Involuntary Admission: In cases where individuals pose a danger to themselves or others due to severe psychiatric symptoms, involuntary admission may be necessary for their safety and well-being.

Length of Stay:

How long a patient stays in the psych war will depend on several factors. This includes how they respond to treatment, the severity of their condition and how they react to their treatment plans. While some patients may require brief stays for crisis intervention, others may need extended hospitalization for comprehensive treatment and stabilization.

Safety Measures and Regulations:

Psychiatric units adhere to stringent safety measures and regulations to ensure the well-being of patients and staff. These may include:

• Suicide Prevention Protocols: Implementation of suicide risk assessments, monitoring, and interventions to prevent self-harm.
• Environment of Care: Designing the unit to promote safety, comfort, and therapeutic engagement while minimizing risks.
• Confidentiality: Upholding strict confidentiality standards to protect patient privacy and maintain trust in the therapeutic process.
• Restraint and Seclusion: Utilizing restraint or seclusion only as a last resort and in accordance with established guidelines and regulations.

Conclusion:

Psychiatric units in hospitals serve as essential resources for individuals grappling with acute mental health challenges. Through a multidisciplinary approach encompassing medication management, therapy, and psychosocial interventions, these units strive to stabilize patients and facilitate their journey toward recovery. By providing a safe, supportive environment and adhering to stringent safety measures and regulations, psychiatric units play a pivotal role in promoting mental health and well-being within the healthcare landscape.