Abstract
▶ In the five preceding articles of this series, the authors profiled specific aspects of the nursing workforce in terms of quantitative trends as well as evolving perceptions in the eyes of nurses and nurse leaders. ▶ In this final article, the authors summarize the major findings of each piece and offer specific and actionable recommendations for nurse leaders, educators, and policymakers. ▶ While many perceptions by nurses have improved since 2002, fundamental issues still face the profession including aspects of education, supply, workplace, diversity, professional image, and quality. ▶ More importantly, two-thirds of the 185,000 nurses that have joined the workforce in recent years are age 50 or greater, so the surge in workforce supply will be short-lived if stronger efforts are not adopted and sustained. ▶ Table 2 could serve as the backbone of the strategic pla n for any nurse leader highlighting the major areas for improvement and recommendations for action.