Nursing workforce shortage: the interaction between student motivational attitudes and expectations regarding starting salary

Information for nursing staff, 2025, 57(4), 20-23.

P. Trendafilova, I. Stambolova

Department of Health Care, Faculty of Public Health „Prof. Tzecomir Vodenitcharov, MD, DSc”, Medical University – Sofia

Abstract. The article examines the growing shortage of nurses in Bulgaria by analyzing the main causes of demotivation among young professionals and its relation to expected starting salaries. Several factors con­tribute to this trend – an aging workforce, emigration, low public recognition, and insufficient initial remuner­ation. The aim of this study is to analyze the correlation between salary expectations and the decision to remain in or leave the nursing profession at an early stage of career development. The article also presents data from recent studies and surveys conducted among nursing students, along with recommendations for improving working conditions and promoting the profession.

Key words: nurses, remuneration, workforce shortage, health care, motivation, professional development

Address for correspondence: Petya Trendafilova, e-mail: p.trendafilova@foz.mu-sofia.bg