The ongoing shortage of registered nurses (RNs) in the U.S. has led to extended work hours for those currently employed, with many states reporting significant increases in the average length of nursing shifts.
RN Shift Lengths Increase in 2024
In the first quarter of 2024, registered nurses in nursing homes across the nation saw their shift lengths increase, with some states reporting average shifts exceeding 11 hours per day. This marks a notable rise from the 10-hour average shifts reported in 2021. According to workplace data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and compiled by Vivian Health, the current average shift length for registered nurses is approximately 10.5 hours per day.
States with the Longest RN Shifts
Alaska and Utah: These states are experiencing the most extended shifts for RNs, with averages of 11.9 and 11.77 hours per day, respectively. Alaska, in particular, faces a severe shortage, with over 1,500 reported RN vacancies, a number expected to exceed 5,000 by 2030.
Nevada, Montana, and Kentucky: These rural-heavy states also report significant workforce challenges, where the distribution of healthcare workers is skewed towards urban and metropolitan areas, exacerbating the shortage.
Legislative Response to the Nursing Shortage
In response to the crisis, Alaska's Governor Mike Dunleavy signed a bill into law aimed at addressing the state's nursing shortage. The law seeks to reduce long waits for nursing licensure, which have deterred many from entering or remaining in the profession.
Impact on Nursing Homes
The shortage of registered nurses is causing nursing homes across the country to limit admissions, with some facilities facing the risk of closure. The American Health Care Association (AHCA) reports that 66% of long-term care facilities are concerned they may be forced to shut down if staffing challenges continue. The potential introduction of a federal minimum staffing mandate could further strain resources, as four out of five nursing homes currently cannot meet the requirement to have nurses on staff 24/7.
Conclusion
The extended work hours for registered nurses are a symptom of the broader nursing shortage that continues to strain the U.S. healthcare system. Without significant intervention, the shortage is likely to worsen, impacting both patient care and the sustainability of healthcare facilities nationwide.
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