Despite the extensive effort international recruitment entails, many within the industry view it as a necessary staffing tool for long-term planning. "We see international clinicians as complimentary to hospital staffs, providing continuity of care for at least 12 months. Given the shortage of nurses, facilities should use as many options as they can," notes Mr. Foster. "With around half of international nurses likely to convert to permanent staff after their assignments, it is a true solution for some clients." Concludes Mr. Pattanaik, "The reality is that no matter how many domestic nurses are brought on board, there will still be a huge need. Qualified, experienced international nurses with strong communication skills can help meet that demand."

REFERENCES Aiken, L.H., Buchan, J., Sochalski, J., Nichols, B., & Powell, M. (2004). Trends in international nurse migration. Health Affairs, 23(3), 69-77.

Brush, B.L., Sochalski, J., & Berger, A.M. (2004). Imported care: Recruiting foreign nurses to U.S. health care facilities. Health Affairs, 23(3), 78-87.

Buerhaus, P.I., Staiger, D.O., & Auerbach, D.I. (2004, November 17). New signs of a strengthening U.S. nurse labor market? [Web exclusive]. Health Affairs, W4-526-533.

Buerhaus, P.I., Staiger, D.O., & Auerbach, D.I. (2003). Is the current shortage of hospital nurses ending? Health Affairs, 22(6), 191-198.

Lazarus, E. (n.d.). The new colossus. Retrieved December 30, 2004, from http://www.bartleby.com/59/6/givemeyourti.html.

Anne Baye Ericksen is a freelance writer based in Simi Valley, California.