PORTLAND, ORE. – Oregon’s newest nurses have overwhelmingly positive job search experiences, according to “Oregon’s Newly Licensed Nurse Workforce,” a new report released today by the Oregon Center for Nursing (OCN).
“More than 80 percent of newly licensed nurses are working and of that 83 percent found their job within one to three months of being licensed as a nurse,” said Jana R. Bitton, OCN’s Executive Director. “Until this study, information on Oregon’s newest nurses was largely anecdotal. We now have detailed information on what these nurses experience as they look for their first jobs.”
OCN conducted its study by contacting Oregon registered nurses who obtained their license in the past year via examination, an indicator they recently completed a nursing program. Survey participants provided information about their job search, current employment and where they would ideally like to be working.
“Data on the experiences new nurses have entering the job market is extremely important” Bitton said. “This information will help nurses leaving school understand what’s ahead, assist nursing programs in preparing students for a changing healthcare environment and inform employers where new nurses are seeking and finding jobs.”
The full study, “Oregon’s Newly Licensed Nurse Workforce” is available to download on the Publications page of the OCN website. An infographic, highlighting key findings from the report, is also available.
OCN is a nonprofit organization created by nursing leaders in 2002. OCN facilitates research and collaboration for Oregon’s nursing workforce to support informed, well-prepared, diverse and exceptional nursing professionals. OCN fulfills its mission through nurse workforce research, building partnerships, and advocating for nursing and healthcare. For more information about OCN, please visit www.oregoncenterfornursing.org.
