In the years leading up to the 2007 recession, unemployment was low and overall the labor market was healthy. However, due to a nursing shortage that began in 1998, it was not a good time for hospitals and physician practices looking to hire. However, once the recession began the shortage was erased, and nursing school graduates were, like their peers in other industries, looking for work.  The workforce surge during 2007-2008 has created ripple effects throughout the profession, and is a factor in the changing role of nurses in our healthcare delivery system.