The RCN said the high turnout surpassed the level seen in two ballots for industrial action held by the union in 2022 and 2023, the first of which permitted six months of strike action by nursing staff.
The union argues that the pay of an experienced nurse fell by 25% in real terms under the Conservative governments between 2010 and 2024.
Prof Ranger said nurses “do not feel valued”, adding they were concerned by “understaffed shifts, poor patient care and nursing careers trapped at the lowest pay grades”.
As ministers prepare to set out a new health and social care agenda, Prof Ranger added: “The government will find our continued support for the reforms key to their success.”