The dynamics of the workplace for nurses are examined in this volume from the perspective of four health care industries. Focusing on acute care hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies and hospices, the contributors explore crucial issues for nursing and for health care systems. They present an extensive literature review on the causes and impacts of the US nursing shortage, introduce projections for the need for nurses and scrutinize recent policies. Results from a survey of hospitals, nursing homes, community-based employment and temporary staff agencies are discussed and integrated with interpretations of market forces.