The Kentucky Nursing Manpower Requirements and Resources Study (1981 and 1985) is one segment of a nursing project designed to develop a coordinated statewide system of nursing education in Kentucky. The study determined the number and types of nurses needed and compared current and anticipated nursing manpower supply and demand. Calculations of nursing manpower requirements were based on a modification of the Nursing Manpower Requirements Model of the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education. In addition to identifying components of the model and assumptions about Kentucky's health care system, background information on Kentucky's demographic trends, regional planning, health care facilities, and nursing programs is presented. The model includes client population estimates, facilities data, staffing ratios, educational vectors, and criteria for the different types of nursing staff. In addition, a model for nursing manpower resources includes nurse licensure, nurse graduations, and a methodology for projecting nursing manpower supply. Study findings and recommendations and the following appended materials are included: a list of types and locations of nursing programs in l98l; staff ratio calculations; a list of criteria for nursing staffing and registered nurse educational preparation; and a glossary. (SW)