The Latest Trends in Healthcare for Nurses

Healthcare is a rapidly evolving industry. In order to be an effective nurse, it is important to be aware of the latest trends. To get a better understanding of the most important trends in healthcare right now, we asked GCU RN to BSN faculty their thoughts on this topic.

Advanced Practice Nurse

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) have post-graduate education in nursing. APRN’s  are equipped with progressive clinical education, knowledge, and skills which open doors to new opportunities. More and more employers are looking for these specialized skills from advanced practice nurses in the workplace.

Affordable Care Act (ACA)

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was passed by Congress in 2010. This act was meant to extend healthcare coverage to uninsured Americans with a goal of lowering healthcare costs and improving efficiency. Although in effect for several years, new policy proposals are under development that impact health care and all Americans. As nurses, it is important to be informed and to play an active role as an advocate. Learn what this means for you and your patients.

National Nurse Residency Programs 

Nurse residency programs are being implemented nationally. GCU faculty member Catherine Beasley said that “new graduates in these programs will receive excellent support in their transition to professional practice. This, in turn, will increase nurse retention rates. Nurse-managed and -led clinics are becoming the epicenter of cost-effective care. These clinics typically serve the underserved and have developed a successful primary care model with excellent patient outcomes.”

Rural Health

With the growing emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention, greater attention is being placed in the community, in particular rural communities in need of support. , Faculty member, Mary Robinson, shared that she has seen the need for nurses in Native American tribes. “The people in these rural areas are facing a shortage of nurses, and they continue to get sick and need help.”

Magnet Accreditation

GCU faculty member, Samantha Deck has said, “One important trend in nursing is the growing emphasis on Magnet status. More and more health care organizations are embarking on the Magnet journey and are encouraging all nurses to obtain their BSN degree to advance care and improve patient outcomes.”

Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Today, more healthcare experts are advocating for prevention and the promotion of healthier lifestyles. Leslie Minjarez, a GCU nursing faculty member, believes healthcare system professionals have spent a lot of time focusing on disease management but, in recent years, they have discovered that disease prevention and health promotion is a better focus.” She goes on to say that many patients find the healthcare system complicated and overwhelming, making nurses all the more important in helping patients navigate their choices and accessing healthcare services.

Any role filled by a professional nurse needs and deserves the skills, preparation, and critical thinking that comes with someone who has a degree. Now, more than ever, professional nurses are at the table with executives and providers making decisions and moving healthcare forward for our communities.”

It is vitally important that nurses gain the skills, education, and preparation necessary to be successful and effective. To do this, they must be aware of the latest healthcare trends and be willing to advance their education to better serve their communities.

Grand Canyon University is committed to providing a quality and comprehensive learning environment for all our students. If you are interested in learning more about out nursing program, visit our website or contact us using the Request More Information button.

Written by Allison Richmond, a professional writing major at GCU.