Over 50% of Saskatchewan Nurses Consider Exiting Profession

A recent survey conducted by the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses (SUN) indicates that more than 50% of registered nurses in Saskatchewan are contemplating leaving the healthcare profession. The findings from the April 2025 survey, which involved 1,791 participants, reveal significant concerns about staffing levels and working conditions in the province’s healthcare system.

Of the nurses surveyed, approximately 53% expressed their intention to consider leaving their roles, while 46% indicated they plan to remain in the profession. A staggering 96% of respondents reported experiencing periods of short staffing, which they noted has resulted in longer wait times for patients.

Concerns Over Staffing and Patient Care

Jared Clarke, a Member of the Legislative Assembly for the New Democratic Party (NDP), highlighted the alarming nature of these findings during a recent news conference. He stated, “Nearly 80% say short staffing has unnecessarily led to patients’ health deteriorating. These are just a few of the findings, and I encourage everyone to read through the report.” Clarke criticized the provincial government’s management of the healthcare system, which has been under the Saskatchewan Party’s administration for 18 years. He asserted that the government has failed to uphold its promises, particularly regarding the provision of 24/7 urgent care.

Clarke emphasized the urgent need for a nursing task force to address the concerns of healthcare workers and to advocate for improvements within the system. “This is a promise that the government made in the election. It’s been ten months, and the nursing task force hasn’t happened yet. Why?” he questioned. Additionally, he pointed out that healthcare professionals have not received a raise in over three years, reflecting a lack of respect for those on the front lines.

Impacts of Burnout and Resource Shortages

The president of SUN, Bryce Boynton, described the survey results as alarming. He noted that “one in four” of their members could retire immediately if they chose to do so. Boynton attributed the high turnover rates to chronic understaffing and insufficient resources, stating, “They’re burnt out, they’re tired. They came into this profession looking to make a difference, provide that light to people going through tough times, and they’re just not able to do that.”

CTV News has reached out to the provincial government for comments regarding the survey findings and the responses from SUN and the NDP. The ongoing discussions about nurse retention and patient care continue to highlight the critical challenges facing Saskatchewan’s healthcare system, raising questions about future stability and staffing adequacy.

The situation remains fluid, and the implications of these survey results could significantly impact healthcare policy and worker satisfaction in the province.