Aims Three levels of impact are reported and discussed in this commentary: the
macro level, which corresponds to policy(ies); the meso level, which corresponds
to nursing services and nursing education; and the micro level, which deals with
clinical practice and education, where interactions between patients and nurses and/
or students take place.
Background The Italian economy is showing some signs of recovery after the worst
economic crisis of past decades. However, these signs are still quite weak and
insufficient to declare that the country is finally coming out of it.
Key issues Several negative impacts of the economic crisis on nursing services and
nursing education are documented. Reports have started to document initial signs of
the economical crisis impact on patients too. Present and future issues related to
nursing services, education and clinical practice are commented both from national
data and from nurses daily perceptions.
Implications for nursing management The Italian economic crisis will leave a heavy
burden on the shoulders of future generations. Nurses leaders are coping with these
challenges, innovating the nursing system and preparing a sustainable future for
generations of patients and nurses.
