Nursing shortage in Arizona reaching critical level

Arizona is facing a critical nursing shortage with experts predicting a deficit of nearly 30,000 registered nurses by 2025, and this situation is expected to worsen. This shortage could lead to longer wait times, increased burnout among nurses and challenges in patient care particularly in rural areas.

Dr. Amber Kool, the Associate Vice President of Assessment and Development at Arizona College of Nursing, joined “Arizona Horizon” to explain what is causing the shortage and steps that can be taken to fix the issue.

“…a practice ready nurse meant skills, knowledge, acquisition of clinical judgement,” Dr. Kool explained, “now I think it means coping mechanisms, understanding the reality of nursing, understanding the toll it can take on yourself as a nurse.”

As nearly 100 nurses graduated from Arizona College of Nursing recently, there is a need to discuss how the face of nursing is changing, the efforts being taken to combat this healthcare crisis and how we can work toward a more equitable and diverse Arizona healthcare system.

“I think healthcare system’s are working really diligently to focus more on mental health of their nursing staff and their other healthcare staff,” Dr. Kool said.

Dr. Kool explained the Arizona College of Nursing offers a three-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at 20 campuses across 13 states.

Dr. Kool’s journey in the nursing profession began in 2012 with a focus on mental health. However, it was her experience in pediatrics and NICU that ignited her passion for teaching.