The outlook for the nursing profession in 2024 remains uncertain, with many US nurses foreseeing ongoing difficulties, according to a new survey by AMN Healthcare.

It found that 80% of nurses anticipate either no improvement or a worsening situation compared to 2023, with 42% predicting stability and 38% fearing it will worsen.

Conversely, only 20% are optimistic it will get better.

“Nurses weathered the storm of Covid-19, but many still see clouds ahead for the profession,” Robin Johnson, group president of nursing solutions with AMN Healthcare, said in a press release. “Clearly, continued focus on nurse wellness, job satisfaction and retention must be a priority for the healthcare industry.”

Another important finding is that 35% of nurses are extremely likely to change jobs in 2024, with another 55% considering it very or somewhat likely. Additionally, 35% are extremely likely to alter their hours or schedules, while 58% say they are somewhat or extremely likely to do so.

“Turnover and volatility in the nursing workforce have been endemic over the last several years. That trend is likely to continue until nurse concerns are addressed,” Johnson said.

Compensation tops the list of priorities for nurses in 2024, followed by more nurses per patient, better schedules, recognition and wellness programs.

When assessing their impact on patient health and well-being in 2024, 37% of nurses described it as extremely positive, while 74% saw it as moderately or somewhat positive.

However, only 37% stated they are extremely proud to be nurses, while 44% said they are moderately or somewhat proud; 19% said they are slightly or not at all proud.

“Given the nature of their work, which can be lifesaving, a greater number of nurses should be extremely proud of what they do,” Johnson said. “The fact that so few are is a matter for reflection and concern.”

AMN Healthcare’s Nurses in 2024 — A Brief Check-In survey includes responses from 1,155 nurses nationwide with a 3% margin of error at a 95% confidence level.