LAFAYETTE, La. (KADN) — This week, we recognize and honor nurses across Acadiana for the hard work they do every day. Modern medicine wouldn't be the same without them.
It's National Nurses' Week. It’s the time to recognize the nursing profession and I want to explain some interesting facts you may not know.
There are 5.2 million RNs in the US and this is the largest healthcare profession. While 60% work within the hospital, many others work in outpatient clinics, administration, and even schools. In fact, there are 104 different specialties within the field of nursing.
Nurses report:
- About 10% higher job satisfaction and optimism compared to last year
- About 25% less burnout
- Average age is 46, leading to a real concern about an aging workforce and future shortage
Fun Facts:
- They walk four to five miles in a 12-hour shift, compared to two to three miles for an average worker
- More men are entering nursing - currently, they are about 12% but this number has grown 20% over the past 10 years
Did you know when it comes to honesty and ethical behavior, the public ranks nursing the highest?
- Nurses have held that rank for many years in a row (79%)
- They outrank doctors (62%) and teachers (53%)
- Just for comparison, of course, I included lawyers (21%), journalists (23%), and members of Congress (7%)
And lastly, modern medicine is very much a team concept. In the hospital, the doctor lays out the treatment plan but the nurse makes sure it’s implemented safely. They are the eyes and ears of the patient.
So, happy Nurses Week, and thank you for all the good patient care.
