Nursing Leadership: Navigating Generational Differences in Somonauk, IL

The nursing workforce today (approximately four million by 2021) consists of four generations. Some percent of nurses are registered born between 1946 and 1965 (ages 57 to 75 in 2021) with a growing number choosing to become a licensed practical nurse by enrolling in practical nursing programs to learn basic nursing care.

The Nursing Workforce: Generations and the Nursing Workforce

Twenty to forty percent of LPNs are Gen Xers, born between 1965 and 1980 (ages 41-56 in 2021). Thirty-nine percent of millennials were born between 1981 and 1996 (ages 25-40 in 2021). Gen Zers are only 1% of the population, born between 1997 and 2012 (ages 9-24 in 2021).

Generational Strengths & Weaknesses

Although no group can be considered a monolith, and everyone should be treated equally, specific essential characteristics are common to all generations.

Baby Boomers

Baby boomers are known for their ability to make rational and objective decisions, which is a great asset in the workplace. Also, they show loyalty when they identify strongly with their jobs and companies for which they work. They are more likely to stay in the same position longer and trust the system. This group is competitive and hardworking because of the lifelong competition of such a large age group. LPN programs (nursing education programs) at Verve College also help to give the proper information about the generational differences in nursing.

Gen Xers

Gen Xers are known for their independence because they grew up in a more accessible and less supervised environment than other generations. They also have a strong desire to learn new technologies about basic care and to master them. They are goal-oriented, education-minded, and decisive team players excited about the workplace in the nursing profession.

The Millennials

The millennials are digital natives who enjoy using and learning new technologies in the workplace. They are also innovative and collaborative, which leads them to value their colleagues, ask for input on problem-solving, and improve the nursing process in a clinical setting.

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Gen Zers

Gen Zers are highly adaptable, flexible, and open to changes, having experienced so much social change. Also, they are goal-oriented and expect clear goals, immediate feedback, and recognition. Career-oriented, they are also not loyal to one company.

The youth of this generation can make them appear entitled if they expect to be treated with the same respect and input as older team members.

The Technology Gap in Professional Nursing

Since baby boomers entered the workforce, technology usage has changed dramatically. And proficiency can vary significantly across generations. Here are some generational differences related to practical nursing technology use and expertise and how to deal with them.

Baby boomers can have difficulty adjusting to new technology or routines. Some boomers, like those who use Facebook, may see social media as a tool for entertainment rather than a way to improve their workplace. Vocational nurse leaders can pair up older employees with those who are more tech-savvy.

Gen Xers have a high level of comfort with technology, and they appreciate the benefits it can bring, including the integration of technology into healthcare settings, like LPN training Illinois in the United States. They are comfortable with computers and smartphones and can learn new software quickly. Instant messaging apps may be viewed as an intrusion on their independence. Leaders must be clear on the communication expectations of their team.

How Nurses Can Bridge Generational Gaps?

Understanding generational differences can make teams more cohesive, and managers can use these differences to their benefit, particularly if they consider each group’s communication preferences. These are generalizations, and individual preferences must always be taken into consideration. Look for ways to use different basic nursing skill sets and embrace differences to improve team performance & medical care.

Best Practices for Nurse Leadership

Leaders and healthcare teams in Somonauk, IL will perform better if they understand how team members approach their nursing careers, what they value, and how they communicate. Leaders may start by focusing on generational differences, but building one-on-one connections builds trust and improves team cohesion.

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The Conclusion of the Article is:

As with any modern workforce of workers, healthcare teams come from various generations of nursing professionals. It may be easier for managers and team members to relate to and understand each other if they understand the communication styles, values, and other characteristics unique to generational differences in the nursing field. Nurse leaders of vocational schools who value and respect differences while searching for common ground and allowing strengths to shine can build strong teams and deliver the best patient outcomes in healthcare facilities.