A Mixed-Method Study on the Factors Associated with Emigration of Nurses and its Impact on Nursing Profession and Health Sectors- A Preliminary Study

Over the past decade, the increase in migration of Registered Nurses has been on the rise worldwide. There are numerous pull and push factors that force nurses to migrate. This study sought to assess the factors that contribute to the increased migration of Registered Nurses at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. A mixed method, cross sectional research design was adopted. 10 Registered Nurses were selected by purposive sampling technique and responded to the questionnaire on migration, followed by interviews. The findings of the study revealed that the majority of respondent 90% were females, 80% of respondent stated that outward migration has increased, 56% respondent stated that England was the main destination, 31% British Virgin Islands and 13% United States of America. 24% percent of respondents attributed this to poor working environment; 24% respondent indicated that wages were the main reasons for nurse’s migration. The results of this study prompted a recommendation that the Government need to implement better wages, working environment, better patient to staff ratio, more opportunities for upward mobility, specialization, and flexible working hours.