The number of licensed registered nurses (RNs) in the United States grew to a new high of 3.1 million between 2004 and 2008 according to the Health Resources and Services Administration.
AN HRSA report shows that for the first time in three decades, the youngest population of nurses grew, helping to restock the pool of RNs. The older population of nurses continued to grow as well.
The increase is the result of growing demand for RNs and responding growth enrollment, the HRSA says.
The study also indicates one of the principal barriers to restocking the pool of RNs is a shortage of nursing faculty to meet the growing need.
"The growth in the numbers and diversity of registered nurses is a positive sign of moving in the right direction, and HRSA remains committed to ensuring an adequate supply and distribution of nurses in the future," said HRSA Administrator Mary K. Wakefield. "HRSA has distributed a significant increase of funds over the past year to recruit, educate and retain nurses."
The survey found that the RN workforce is gradually becoming more diverse. In 2008, 16.8 percent of nurses were Asian, Black/African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native and/or Hispanic, an increase from 12.2 percent in 2004.
Other findings include:
- The shortage of nursing faculty will grow significantly, with 60 percent of current faculty 50 years of age or older.
- An estimated 444,668 RNs received their first U.S. license between 2004 and 2008.
- Half of all RNs have achieved a baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing or a nursing-related field in 2008, nearly doubling since 1980.
- The number of RNs with Master's or Doctorate degrees rose to 404,163 in 2008, an increase of 46.9 percent from 2000.
- Nearly 45 percent of RNs were 50 years of age or older in 2008, an increase from 33 percent in 2000 and 25 percent in 1980.
- Average annual earnings for RNs in 2008 were $66,973. RNs' salaries rose almost 15.9 percent since 2004, which slightly outpaced inflation.
The National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses is published every four years by the HRSA's Bureau of Health Professions. "The Registered Nurse Population: Initial Findings from the 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses" includes comparisons from eight recurring surveys, conducted between 1980 and 2008.
The HRSA, part of the Department of Health and Human Services, is the primary federal agency providing policy leadership and grant support for health professions workforce development.