What nurses of different generations can learn from each other

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Generational differences in the nursing field can sometimes create gaps in communication or workstyles. Each generation may have a different preference when it comes to collaboration, use of technology and communication, so it’s important to recognize these perspectives to support stronger teamwork and mutual understanding

Adapting to different work styles and finding opportunities for collaboration can help create an environment for nurses to learn from each other and work toward quality patient care. Nursing degree programs can also help nurses in developing their leadership and communication skills to build relationships with colleagues.

COVID-19 impact on nursing demographics

The COVID-19 pandemic greatly impacted the nursing workforce in the United States. Over 100,000 registered nurses (RNs) and 34,000 licensed practical and vocational nurses left the workforce between 2020 and 2022, according to a 2022 study from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

While the nursing workforce has since experienced greater stability, according to the 2024 National Nursing Workforce Study, there is still a large proportion of registered nurses (40%) and licensed practical nurses (41%) who plan to leave the profession in the next five years.

Evolving educational needs

A number of factors are driving differences between nursing generations. Some of the main ones are advancements in education, the growing emphasis on higher education and a broader curriculum. As the healthcare landscape has evolved, education needs have shifted in line with those changes.

Historically, nursing education for earlier generations often centered around hospital-based diploma programs, which focused heavily on developing hands-on clinical skills. In contrast, many nurses today pursue academic nursing degrees that not only provide practical clinical training but also incorporate courses in research, leadership, community health and ethics – offering a more comprehensive approach to nursing practice.

This increased focus on evidence-based practice and critical thinking encourages students to consider the “why” behind the methods being used.

While this might create some disconnect for established nurses who may be used to doing things in a certain way, newer nurses want to ensure their decisions are driven by informed practice. This could lead to beneficial innovation and the discovery of better methods, as well as fostering mentorship opportunities such as where nurses further in their career can share their institutional experience.

More experienced nurses can also pursue advanced degrees if they’re interested in exploring new roles such as leadership and administration or education within the nursing profession.

Leveraging technology

How different generations approach technology is an opportunity for nurses to collaborate and learn from one another. The next generation of nurses may be used to applying technology in their day-to-day work lives, and they may even pursue advanced degrees in nursing informatics. Whatever their level of engagement with it, technology plays an important role in the modern healthcare profession.

But technology isn’t the only feature of today’s nursing landscape, and overdependence on technology can be limiting. This is an area where generations of nurses can come together to share expertise. Nurses with longstanding experience can explore how technological advancements can create efficiencies, and newer career nurses can find guidance as they develop intuition when working with patients.

Increased autonomy in nursing roles

Educational advancements have driven the need for specialized and advanced nursing roles. Nurse practitioner programs at the graduate level help prepare nurses for these more autonomous roles by teaching clinical decision-making, comprehensive person-centered care, interprofessional collaboration and other skills that can help improve healthcare outcomes. These rigorous programs provide a base of core concepts that can help nurses who are just starting their careers to transfer their knowledge to new situations.

A culture of continuous learning

When it comes to applying different methods, generational gaps between nurses can be navigated through communication channels and listening without judgement. While there may be different philosophies when it comes to ideas about hierarchy, true collaboration comes from openness, curiosity and a willingness to be flexible. Everyone has something to learn and teach, no matter their age or career stage.

Ultimately, nurses at any point in their career can benefit from embracing lifelong learning and the opportunities that modern nursing education can provide. Pursuing professional development opportunities helps build mutual respect, appreciation of others’ strengths and collaboration with colleagues.

If you’re interested in expanding your nursing skills with an advanced degree, check out these blogs:

• I’m a nurse with a BSN. Which master’s degree is right for me?
• Thinking about an MSN? 5 areas to consider

Healthcare organizations, for their part, can continue fostering intergenerational teamwork and capitalizing on the advanced training of today’s nurses, creating environments where all nurses can practice to the full extent of their education and license.

Bridging generational differences and empowering nurses through education can help the nursing profession meet the evolving needs of patients and healthcare systems in the 21st century.

Learn more about online nursing programs at Capella University.