Nursing workforce in the Philippines: Data and issues

ABSTRACT

@#<p style="text-align justify;">This study was conducted to (1) determine the profile of nurses in various work settings based on available databases; (2) describe the current nursing education and programs in the Philippines; and (3) identify national key issues affecting the nursing workforce. The study utilized descriptive, cross-sectional research design; and employed institutional survey, Delphi survey, and round table discussions. Results showed that the Department of Health has the current number of nurses working in hospitals and communities in the different regions, including information on age and sex distribution, employment characteristics, and type of hospital affiliations. The Professional Regulations Commission Board of Nursing has the results of the national licensure examinations. Commission on Higher Education has information on BSN curriculum and schools. Priority key issues identified are (1) nursing leadership and nursing role clarity, (2) workplace safety and violence, and (3) shortage of nurses, (4) unjust compensation, and (5) skills mix and geographic maldistribution. PNA is thought to have a big role in helping address these key issues. </p>