The Growing Shortage of Nurses in Hospitals

I read with great interest your article on the nursing shortage (Part I, Aug. 6).

The American Assn. of Critical-Care Nurses, an association of 57,000 critical care nurses, of which I am president, is deeply concerned about recruitment and retention in the nursing profession and especially in critical care nursing. AACN has developed a series of videotapes, brochures and posters which we hope will stimulate interest in critical care nursing as a career choice.

I’ve been a critical care nurse for 15 years. I’ve had good days and bad, but I’ve never regretted my decision to go into nursing. There are few professions in this world that would allow you to know, beyond any doubt, that you make a difference. Whether you’re 11, 15 or 45, if you’re looking for excitement, if you’re looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of those around you, choose nursing.

JEANETTE HARTSHORN, RN, Ph.D

President

AACN

Newport Beach