In 2014, registered nurse (RN) graduations in the state grew by 6 percent over 2013, driven primarily by an increase in the number of baccalaureate nursing (BSN) graduates, while licensed RNs who continued their education to obtain a baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN completers) made up a growing share of BSN graduates.

According to a recently released report from the University at Albany’s Center for Health Workforce Studies (CHWS), the total number of RN graduations in the state has more than doubled since 2002.

The report is based on an annual survey of deans and directors of New York’s RN education programs to better understand trends in the production of RNs in the state and the availability of jobs upon graduation. In 2014, ADN graduates declined slightly compared to 2013, while the number of BSN graduates increased by 12 percent over the same time period. For the first time, BSN graduates surpassed ADN graduates in 2014.

A recent federal report indicated that nursing supply in New York will exceed nursing demand by 2025, although there continues to be a maldistribution of RNs at regional and local levels. The report also acknowledged -that the transformation of the health care delivery system will affect future demand for RNs.

“It will be important to understand the use of RNs in emerging models of care in ambulatory settings.” stated Dr. Robert Martiniano, senior program manager at CHWS. “While RNs may be logical candidates to work in clinical titles, they could also play key roles in the oversight and delivery of care coordination services.”

Read more: http://www.albany.edu/news/60637.php