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16: Nursing Workforce and Health Policy

DOI:

10.1891/9780826110701.0016

Authors

  • O’Brien-Pallas, Linda
  • Hayes, Laureen

Abstract

An inadequate nursing workforce will jeopardize the functioning of the healthcare system as increasing evidence shows a relationship between registered nurse (RN) care and patient outcomes. This chapter illustrates how research is shaping health human resources (HHR) strategies for nursing in Ontario and Canada and describes policy responses to alleviate widespread fears about a looming nursing workforce shortage. It discusses the HHR theoretical framework and its application in research and policy. Researchers should understand the nature of the policy cycle in order to promote effective collaboration with policy makers. The chapter explains the policy cycle and conveys how research evidence, using a continuous quality improvement process, is contributing to current strategies aimed at strengthening the nursing workforce in Ontario. It highlights some considerations for the future of nursing that are proposed in current literature.