At a perpetual crossroads

It has been suggested that nursing is at a crossroads, that it is at a decisive turning point, but in reality the profession is always in a state of flux. Rather than facing a singular moment of decision, it continuously navigates intersecting challenges and opportunities that shape its future. This perpetual crossroads is marked by ongoing workforce shortages, demographic shifts, technological advances, evolving healthcare policies and changing patient needs, all of which reflect the very nature of a profession that is always evolving. Nursing is constantly redefining its scope, identity and values in response to the changing landscape of health care. The definition and principles of nursing from the Royal College of Nursing's (RCN) (2024) – along with the RCN's eight principles that apply to all nursing staff, as well as nursing students, in all care settings – is testament to this.

The profession has long grappled with staffing shortages and, while retention and recruitment drives and policy changes attempt to address the issue, demand continues to outpace supply. The growing complexity of health care, fuelled by an ageing population and an increase in long-term conditions, places an ever heavier burden on the nursing workforce. The decision to be made at this crossroads is not simply about increasing numbers but about redefining how roles are structured, who will deliver care, and how nursing is valued and supported, in order to create a diverse, sustainable workforce.