The Institute of Medicine (IOM) started in 1970. It is a non-profit organization. The main goal of IOM is to help private organizations and the government in making health decisions based on evidence and practice. On October 5th, 2010, the IOM released its recommendations on nursing in the US. According to the report it is crucial for nurses to obtain higher levels of education and training.

You can depend on the IOM to be a fair and reputable organization. The IOM works with national academies and has a large number of professionals and volunteers. Their time is spent trying to come up with ideas to improve and support health. In order to manage the increasing responsibilities that come with the rapidly growing health care, nurses have to increase their level of education and training. Nurses need to be able to take the role as leaders, particularly nurses who practice in primary care. A report issued by the IOM proposed that these better-trained nurses can fill a gap. This brings up an old debate regarding what is “scope of practice.” Should nurses be able to order tests, write prescriptions and take on other responsibilities only reserved to doctors?

Health challenges have shifted in the 21st century. In the 20th century we focused more on treating acute illnesses and injuries. Today Americans are older, those 65 and older will be almost 20% of the population by 2030. The older population creates more chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and mental health conditions. This is compounded by the increasing obesity levels in the US.

Education for the 20th century is not acceptable for the changes we are facing in the 21st century. The environment where the patient is cared for and their needs are more complex and require nurses to deliver a higher quality of care. This includes leadership, system