24 | The Nursing Workforce Crisis – Data, Challenges, and Solutions for the Future

The nursing profession is facing a critical shortage, and today’s episode of Nursing Insights dives deep into the latest New Jersey Nursing Data and Analysis Report for 2025. Dr. Edna Cadmus, Executive Director of the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing (NJCCN), and Dr. Daria Waszak, Assistant Director, join us to discuss the state of the nursing workforce, the shortages we’re facing nationally and in New Jersey, and the strategies in place to address them.Key Takeaways:✔️ Projected Nursing Shortage: By 2036, the U.S. is expected to face a 9% shortage of RNs and 12% shortage of LPNs, creating a significant workforce challenge.✔️ New Jersey’s Nursing Landscape: The state is among the top 10 most affected by nursing shortages, with faculty shortages and stagnant graduation rates making it difficult to fill the gap.✔️ Retention & Turnover Rates: Nurse turnover remains high – LPN turnover at 44%, RN turnover at 25%, and NP turnover at 21% – highlighting the need for better workforce stabilization.✔️ Residency & Transition Programs: The NJCCN’s RN Residency Program and Advanced Practice Provider Transition Program are working to improve new nurse retention and competency across specialties.✔️ Legislative Efforts & Funding: Several bills are in motion to expand nurse education, provide loan forgiveness for faculty, and improve access to advanced practice roles.✔️ Well-Being & Job Satisfaction: Despite workforce challenges, job satisfaction among nurses is improving, with increased salaries and support programs making a difference.Listen now to get an in-depth look at the nursing workforce crisis and the initiatives shaping the future of healthcare.Relevant Links:New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing (NJCCN) Website: https://njccn.orgAccess the Full 2025 Nursing Data Report & Dashboard: https://njccn.org/reportsFollow NJCCN on LinkedIn for Updates: https://linkedin.com/company/njccnSubscribe to Nursing Insights for more expert discussions on nursing and healthcare.