Being a nursing student has never been a walk in the park, but in 2024, the challenges have reached new heights. As the healthcare landscape evolves and demands on nurses continue to grow, nursing students find themselves navigating an educational journey that is more demanding and complex than ever before. Here are just some of the reasons that I think being a nursing student is exceptionally challenging in 2024.

Pandemic Impact & Global Nursing Shortage: The shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to loom large over nursing education. Nursing students have had to adapt to a rapidly changing healthcare environment, with new protocols, safety measures, and increased stress on healthcare systems. The pandemic has not only affected the way students learn but has also heightened the emotional toll of entering a profession at the forefront of public health crises. The nursing shortage has remained a persistent issue, and in 2024, it has become even more pronounced. Nursing students are not only under pressure to excel academically but also face the responsibility of filling critical gaps in healthcare. The shortage means that students may be thrust into high-stress work environments sooner than previous generations.

Technological Advancements & Challenges: While technology has brought numerous benefits to healthcare, it has also increased the complexity of nursing education. Nursing students must grapple with the integration of electronic health records (EHRs), telehealth, and advanced medical technologies. Learning to navigate these systems adds an extra layer of complexity to their education and while technology has its advantages, it also presents challenges for nursing students. Learning and adapting to new software and tools can be time-consuming, and technical glitches can disrupt the flow of education. The constant need to stay updated with the latest advancements adds an additional layer of pressure.

Increased Workload & Licensing Exam: Nursing programs are coming along with a heavier workload. The curriculum is extensive and clinical rotations demand a significant time commitment. Balancing coursework, clinical experiences, and personal life has become a juggling act that requires exceptional time management skills. Furthermore, the pressure to pass the licensing exam, the NCLEX, is intense. Success in this exam is non-negotiable for entering the profession, and the comprehensive nature of the test requires students to have a deep understanding of a wide range of nursing concepts.

All this considered, being a nursing student in 2024 is undoubtedly one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys. As students face unprecedented hurdles, it’s essential to acknowledge their resilience and commitment to entering a profession that plays a crucial role in global health. Despite the hardships, they are forging ahead, equipped with the skills and determination needed to make a positive impact in the ever-evolving field of healthcare. One way to try and help alleviate the struggle is through the Nitty Gritty Nursing podcast series, where I attempt to break down the confusion associated with care needed for specific patient types and disease processes and lay out the nitty gritty basics.