Nursing Shortage Bad and Getting Worse

Laramie, Wy – The Dean of the University of Wyoming's School of Nursing says the nursing shortage in the state is severe and getting worse. Doctor Pamela Clarke says as the population here ages it will strain nurses even further. She says at the hospital level the shortage can be felt because nurses often work overtime, which is hard on them and their families. Also, hospitals hire traveling nurses, which makes the cost of health care even more expensive.
Clarke says some people say the nursing shortage is the eight leading cause of death in hospitals.
A summit to discuss the shortage and working conditions will take place at the University of Wyoming September 15th and 16th.