The upcoming year will offer many opportunities and many changes. Nurses will continue to face staff shortages and heavy patient loads in many areas of the country. The use of emerging technologies, along with open lines of communication and flexible staffing, may improve efficiency and help RNs to provide high-quality care and ensure patient safety.

The Joint Commission's new rule requiring hospitals to create codes of conduct on bad behavior will take effect in January. The change should lead to improved working conditions and a renewed focus on teamwork among health care providers as well as collaboration with patients and families.

A new Obama administration could usher in health care reforms, including a plan to provide health coverage for all Americans. An increased focus at the national level on prevention and care coordination will highlight nurses' roles as both patient educators and patient advocates.