ANN ARBOR, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A University of Michigan survey of more than 9,000 state-licensed nurses in Michigan revealed that roughly 39% of them plan to quit their jobs this year.

MORE NEWS: Michigan DNR Pulls Swim Buoys as Season Wraps Up

Michigan already has a nurse shortage and healthcare institutions have been struggling to hire more. The study, published in the journal Medical Care, also found 59% of newly trained nurses younger than 25 are planning to leave their current job this year.

The survey questioned the main factor driving nurses away from the profession. According to the study, nurses want increased and improved staffing that’s been on the decline for the past decade.

Action from hospital leaders and legislators will help prevent nurses from leaving the field, according to lead author of the study Christopher Friese.

Without action, Friese said the future health and safety of Michigan residents would be at risk. An aging Baby Boomer population also impacts well-being of the profession.