AI & Nursing: Just the beginning

March 05, 2026 by Sarah Wells

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become part of the healthcare landscape, and nursing is no exception. While the idea of AI may feel futuristic, many nurses are already interacting with AI-powered tools in their daily work, often without realizing it. From clinical decision support systems to predictive staffing models and ambient listening documentation tools, AI is beginning to shape how care is delivered and how nurses work.

At its best, AI may reduce the administrative burden that has long contributed to nurse burnout. Technologies such as digital scribes and smart documentation tools can assist with charting, allowing nurses to spend more time at the bedside and less time at the computer. AI can also analyze large datasets to identify patterns that may help predict patient deterioration, support triage decisions, or create efficient staffing plans.

However, the growing use of AI in healthcare also raises important questions for the nursing profession. Nurses must be involved in conversations about how these technologies are developed, implemented, and evaluated. Without nursing input, AI tools may fail to reflect the realities of clinical practice or the nuances of patient care.

There are also important considerations around transparency, bias, and equity. If AI systems are trained on incomplete or biased data, they may unintentionally reinforce existing disparities in healthcare. Nurses, as patient advocates, play a critical role in ensuring that technology supports equitable and ethical care.

AI will not replace nurses. Instead, it has the potential to become another tool that supports clinical judgment, strengthens workflows, and enhances patient care - if nurses help lead the way.

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺

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.

Time to make a comment!

February 16, 2026 by Sarah Wells

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

The U.S. Department of Education’s (DOE) proposed changes to federal graduate student loan funding have raised alarms across higher education - and not just within nursing. While much of the conversation has focused on graduate nursing programs - such as those for nurse practitioners - the reality is that these funding limitations would affect a wide range of graduate disciplines, including social work, public health, education, counseling, and other non-healthcare professional fields.

For nursing, the implications are immediate. Advanced practice nurses are essential to addressing provider shortages, expanding primary care access, and strengthening healthcare systems. Reduced federal loan availability could discourage experienced and historically underrepresented nurses from pursuing graduate education, shrinking the future workforce of clinicians, educators, and leaders.

But the broader concern is structural: when financial barriers to graduate education increase, entire professions feel the impact. Communities rely on highly trained professionals across sectors - from healthcare to education to public service - and limiting access to advanced degrees risks worsening workforce shortages nationwide.

Submitting a public comment is one of the most meaningful advocacy actions professionals - anyone, not just nurses - can take right now:

Leave a comment on the DOE’s website by March 2, 2026

Policymakers need to understand that graduate education funding is not a niche issue; it is a workforce issue, an access issue, and ultimately a societal investment. When pathways to education narrow, the ripple effects extend far beyond a single profession. #strongertogether

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺

I am mad at everything. What can I do about it.

January 30, 2026 by Sarah Wells

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

Even if you have only been minimally paying attention to current events, you may have noticed that a lot of nurses are mad.

I am one of them. I am really mad.

What can you do about it?

Well, in this case, other angry nurses have organized some opportunities for you to share your rage in the form of advocacy:

And there is the good old-fashioned approach:

Contact your elected officials in Congress

Have another way to funnel your rage? Let me know in the comments!

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺

A FREE career resource?

January 19, 2026 by Sarah Wells

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

Looking for a new job can be stressful. Get organized with New Thing Nurse!

Navigating a nurse job search can feel overwhelming, especially in this rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Whether you’re applying for your first nursing job, transitioning specialties, or pursuing a leadership or advanced practice position, having a clear and structured approach matters. This new resource, the Nurse Job Search Readiness Guide from New Thing Nurse, was created to help nursing professionals move through the job search and application process with confidence, clarity, and intention.

The checklist breaks the journey into practical phases, guiding nurses from role exploration and resume preparation to interviewing, offer evaluation, and onboarding. It also highlights the importance of Applicant Tracking System (ATS) compatible application materials, strategic networking, and thoughtful career reflection. Designed to be both practical and empowering, this resource supports nurses in showcasing their skills, leveraging their networks, and making informed career decisions. Whether you are actively applying or simply preparing for your next opportunity, this checklist helps you take control of your career path, one intentional step at a time.

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺

What does 2026 hold for nursing?

January 14, 2026 by Sarah Wells

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

Pay Transparency in Nursing

September 12, 2024 by Sarah Wells

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

Pay transparency is a growing demand across industries, including healthcare.

Applicants want to know the compensation for a job before applying for a position. Thanks to pay transparency laws, job seekers in 10 states currently see the wage or salary of a role in the job posting.

Why is pay transparency important?

Pay transparency supports pay equity, which is still a big issue in nursing. Becker’s recently highlighted gender pay disparities in nursing, which shocked me. As a former ED nurse, I’m not easy to shock.

No transparency laws in your state? Try this:

Research nurse wages in your area on websites like Glassdoor or search the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Ask someone. Snoop around on social media nursing groups and ask about pay for facilities. Do this anonymously whenever possible to avoid problems with potential employers.
Explore growing platforms like Bluem, where nurses will be able to anonymously report their wages.

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺

How to Get Hired 101: Effective Communication in Healthcare

August 09, 2024 by Sarah Wells

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

When considering the qualities to highlight during a job interview, it is crucial to emphasize your ability to communicate effectively. Healthcare employers look for nurses with exceptional communication skills for every role.

The importance of effective communication in healthcare:

Patient Safety Relies on Effective Communication:

Optimal communication among healthcare providers and during medical encounters is vital for ensuring patient safety.

Productive Teamwork Depends on Clear Communication:

Clear communication is essential for fostering productive teamwork among the clinical staff.

Digital Communication Skills are Essential:

Strong communication skills are not limited to verbal interactions but also extend to digital formats such as email, EMR documentation, secure texting, and more.

Skilled Communication Promotes Equitable Care:

Inclusive communication contributes to creating equitable care environments for diverse patient populations and staff.

Need help showcasing your communication skills? Reach out to New Thing Nurse, and find out how to SHINE in your next interview!

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺

Nurses Week Gift Ideas!

May 03, 2024 by Sarah Wells in future nurse, holidays, nurse, nursing

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

Nurses Week is May 6-12 - in just a few days!

Professional appreciation is important. This year’s Nurses Week theme is "Nurses Make the Difference.” Whether you are planning celebrations for staff or looking for a cute gift for your nurse friend, check out these resources to make your Nurses Week extra fabulous:

Free Nurses Week Content - Nurses associations have Nurses Week websites to help you plan your week! Check out the offerings from the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.
Shop Etsy for Nurses Week - I love Etsy for meaningful gifts for friends and colleagues. I can always find fun and unique items to show others that they’re appreciated.
Nurses Week Discounts + Freebies - Businesses are already sharing their Nurses Week freebies and discounts! Don’t miss out on a deal by following the curated list from Nurse.org or this freebies and discounts blog from AACN.

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺

Where is nursing going?

April 02, 2024 by Sarah Wells

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

Nursing is constantly changing. Here are a few trends on the horizon for our profession:

Stabilizing the Workforce - Moves to improve staffing and retention will continue to be a priority. Check out recommendations from national nursing organizations to overcome staffing challenges.
Virtual Everywhere - Virtual nursing opportunities will expand. Learn what virtual nursing is and how it could impact your healthcare organization.
Innovation in Nursing - Nurses are leading the way in innovation. Listen to an interview with Dr. Bonnie Clipper, CEO and Founder of Innovation Advantage, discussing revolutionizing how virtual nursing care is delivered in hospitals.
School or No School? - There are now many ways to achieve your career goals in nursing without more school. Learn about non-traditional nursing roles that might interest you

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺

Do you love this?

February 11, 2024 by Sarah Wells

By: Sarah K. Wells MSN RN CEN CNL

February is Heart Month. My question: is your heart in your current job?

Here are few prompts to consider when thinking about this question:

Resonating? - Is your job resonating with your professional values and passions? If not, consider why and if that can be changed.
Balanced? - Does your job allow you to have a good work-life balance? Or are you sacrificing one for the other? Are you able to make it better?
Satisfying? - Do you leave work feeling fulfilled or deflated? Is your time at work satisfying you? Professional satisfaction can come in many different forms.
Growth? - Is there opportunity for growth in your position, personally or professionally? Are you progressing towards your career goals?

If your heart isn’t in your job, chat with New Thing Nurse to plan your next career move.

New Thing Nurse helps the nursing and NP community thrive in their careers! Join us on IG or Facebook @newthingnurse 🩺