Ann Arbor Times

Nurses play a crucial role in delivering direct care globally, accounting for nearly 80% of hands-on care. However, their contributions during health crises are often overlooked in leadership roles that shape resilience strategies. A study from the University of Michigan underscores the importance of health system resilience, defined as the capacity to respond effectively to shocks or disasters while maintaining essential services.

Lead author Katherine Kruger, a doctoral student at the U-M School of Nursing, noted, “What surprised me most was how few papers discussed both the nursing workforce and their contributions in terms of health system resilience.” The research highlights challenges and opportunities for integrating nurses into critical processes. It aligns with the World Health Organization's call to empower nurses as part of enhancing health system resilience.

Barriers such as inadequate staffing and restrictive policies limit nurses' involvement in strategic planning and leadership. Traditional hierarchies and gender-based dynamics further exacerbate these challenges. Kruger stated, “This is the first piece of research that says we are talking the talk but really not taking action needed to get nurses involved on a global scale.”

The study suggests that a strong nursing presence enhances health system performance and population health outcomes, including reduced mortality rates. Expanding nurses' roles can improve resilience and equity in healthcare delivery.

Policy changes prioritizing nurse recruitment and retention are advocated by researchers. Kruger expressed hope for increased nursing voices from both top-down organizations and bottom-up engagement: “My hope is that we continue with top-down, large or global organizations increasing nursing voices, but it is also beneficial for bottom-up engagement to remind nurses that when disaster strikes, nurses are the ones who are responding and adapting.”

Co-authors include Sue Anne Bell, Jody Lori from U-M School of Nursing, and Petra Brysiewicz from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.