As healthcare in this country continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals to manage and provide care for patients will continue to increase. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) are vital to delivering quality healthcare services, and are in high demand but in short supply. This will continue to put pressure on the healthcare staffing industry and force it to make significant changes that will impact the future of LPN and RN roles.
One of the most significant changes underway is the rise of technology in healthcare. Telemedicine, virtual care, and remote monitoring are all becoming more common, leading healthcare organizations to embrace technology to provide more comprehensive care. This shift is creating an increased demand for nurses who are well-versed in technology, opening up new opportunities for LPNs and RNs to expand their skill sets.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of RNs is projected to grow by 7% from 2020 to 2030, adding approximately 221,900 new RN jobs during that period. Meanwhile, the demand for LPNs is expected to grow by 9%, adding roughly 65,700 new LPN jobs during that same timeframe.
Data and analytics are playing a more significant role in healthcare. Healthcare organizations are beginning to use data and analytics to improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and optimize staffing. Nurses who are comfortable with data and analytics tools and who can use them to make data-driven decisions will be in high demand in the coming years.
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