Final answer:
The aging baby boomer population poses the greatest current healthcare challenge to nurses, due to impending common health issues and increased demand for healthcare services and nursing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the presented options, the aging baby boomer population represents the greatest current health care challenge to nurses. This generation, born between 1946 and 1964, consists of more than 71 million people who are now reaching retirement age. As they age, they will encounter common healthcare issues such as heart conditions, arthritis, and Alzheimer's that may necessitate hospitalization, long-term care, or at-home nursing.
The increase in demand for healthcare services due to aging baby boomers, coupled with advances in life-saving technologies, significantly impacts the nursing profession. Furthermore, the Affordable Care Act expedites access to healthcare for millions, potentially amplifying this demand, although changes in political leadership could influence sustainability.