A new report from Cross Country Healthcare, in collaboration with Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, offers a stark look at the nursing profession in 2025 — revealing widespread burnout, ongoing staffing issues, and a troubling sense of fatigue across the field.

Titled “Beyond the Bedside: The State of Nursing in 2025,” the survey draws on insights from over 2,600 nursing professionals, including RNs, LPNs, APRNs, and nursing students. The findings suggest that, despite the attention nurses received during the pandemic, real reform has lagged — and the strain is becoming unsustainable.

“Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, yet they’re still being asked to carry an unsustainable load,” said John A. Martins, president and CEO of Cross Country Healthcare.

Key Findings:

• 65% of nurses report experiencing high stress and burnout.
• Only 60% would choose the nursing profession again.
• Top challenges include short staffing, low pay, lack of support, and even patient abuse.
• Among nursing students, 67% are already worried about future workloads — yet 82% remain hopeful about their careers.

Dr. Cameron Duncan, dean of FAU’s College of Nursing, noted the contrast between hopeful students and overwhelmed professionals: “This moment requires bold, coordinated action at every level — from educators to policymakers.”

A Roadmap for Change

The report outlines five priorities to stabilize and revitalize the profession:

1. Safe staffing ratios and better recruitment
2. Competitive pay and retention incentives
3. Work-life balance through flexible scheduling and mental health resources
4. Stronger leadership and transparent communication
5. Streamlined credentialing to reduce bureaucratic delays

Martins added, “This isn’t just about perks — it’s about rebuilding trust. Nurses deserve to feel valued, heard, and supported.”

As the healthcare industry faces a growing care gap, the report calls on leaders to take real, measurable action — before it’s too late.