By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

2026 is here! Is nursing ready?

Nursing stands at a moment of change and opportunity. The ongoing integration of tech continues to reshape the way care is delivered and experienced. Nurses are increasingly using AI, telehealth tools, and data analytics to support clinical decision-making, streamline workflows, and enhance patient outcomes. This shift doesn’t replace the need for nurses; rather, it amplifies it, highlighting the need for human clinicians. We need nurses now more than ever. #facts

Workforce development remains a big topic. With ongoing staffing shortages in many regions, 2026 will see changes in nursing education, including positives such as enhanced sim-based training, and huge challenges, such as proposed legislation to limit funding for graduate nursing programs. Nurse staffing has been included as a National Performance Goal by The Joint Commission.

In some places, health systems are investing in nurse wellness support, flexible scheduling, and leadership training to retain new and experienced nurses and reduce burnout. At the same time, nurses are stepping into expanded roles in advocacy, policy, and community health - shaping care from the bedside and beyond. The professional nursing landscape is moving faster and faster.

2026 will be defined by agility, innovation, and compassion. Nursing will need to continue to lead with heart and expertise, meeting the evolving needs of patients and communities.

New Thing Nurse has been quiet for a while, but now, we’re back - changing as the nursing community’s needs are shifting. #moretocome

New Thing Nurse is here to help and meet each nursing professional where they are.

Let’s get ready for the rest of 2026 together.

Contact New Thing Nurse >> newthingnurse@newthingnurse.com

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About the Author: Sarah K. Wells, MSN, RN, CEN, CNL is an experienced nurse career strategist dedicated to helping nurses and nurse practitioners of all experience levels and specialties achieve success in their nursing and NP journeys. Sarah founded New Thing Nurse to help provide support and guidance to the nursing community in a simple and direct format. Sarah’s vision is to foster a more supportive and fulfilled nursing world that spreads throughout healthcare and beyond.