The ripple effects of nurse shortages are widespread:
Patient Care: Lower nurse-to-patient ratios often result in reduced quality of care and increased patient morbidity and mortality. Workload: Nurses face increased workloads, leading to higher stress levels, fatigue, and job dissatisfaction. Healthcare Costs: Inefficiencies and errors due to understaffing can increase healthcare costs. Professional Development: Limited time and resources can hinder ongoing education and professional development for nurses.