A recent survey by the Verdi trade union has revealed profoundly concerning levels of dissatisfaction among nursing apprentices and students, significantly exceeding that found in other professions. The poll, encompassing over 2,000 individuals undergoing training under the Nursing Profession Act, paints a stark picture of systemic failings within the sector and raises serious questions about the industry’s long-term sustainability.
Findings indicate that only a third of nursing apprentices express satisfaction or high satisfaction with their training, a figure slashed to just under half amongst students. Verdi’s federal executive board member, Sylvia Bühler, characterized this as “a damning indictment” of employers, many of whom appear to be failing in their responsibilities.
The survey highlights a concerning trend: initially motivated young individuals are increasingly being driven away from the profession due to inadequate training quality and unsustainable workloads. Bühler directly linked this dissatisfaction to a readily apparent correlation between insufficient support and burgeoning frustration. This, she argues, is significantly contributing to the chronic nursing shortage that employers routinely cite – a shortage exacerbated by their own shortcomings.
While the data clearly indicates that establishments offering reduced workload and better mentorship experience demonstrably higher apprentice satisfaction – with nearly three-quarters expressing positivity – concerns persist regarding a broader lack of investment in foundational training. Bühler stressed the importance of strong theoretical instruction alongside positive practical experiences.
The findings underscore a critical necessity: improved training is paramount to addressing the crippling workforce deficit. Bühler called on institutions, nursing schools and policymakers to translate these observations into concrete action, rejecting excuses for the prevailing crisis.
The survey’s data unequivocally demonstrates that falling standards are a direct consequence of persistent staffing shortages. Apprentices are reporting distress stemming from unpredictable shifts, excessive overtime and inadequate supervision. Verdi advocates for legally binding and proportionate staffing levels across all areas of nursing care as a central remedy.
Furthermore, Bühler emphasized the need to strengthen practical instruction within the Nursing Profession Act, calling for a substantial increase in mandated, structured practical training periods – from the current 10% to a minimum of 30%. She also urged that “situational guidance” remains assured in everyday learning environments, with repercussions for institutions failing to meet these standards.
The most acute pressure, according to the survey, is experienced within both community nursing services and residential care facilities, where apprentices are frequently deployed in isolation. Deploying young individuals, often in challenging and emotionally taxing situations, without adequate supervision has been deemed “irresponsible”. The union is calling on the legislature to intervene and enforce mandated oversight by qualified nursing professionals, ensuring that training invariably occurs under their guidance.
Ultimately, Bühler concluded, breaking the vicious cycle of staffing shortages, burnout and attrition demands a renewed focus on high-quality education, recognizing it as the future of the nursing profession.
