A Study Exploring Local Nurse Retention Data

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to identify the nursing perceptions and factors that affect nurse retention at this local freestanding pediatric hospital. BACKGROUND Currently in the United States, the demand for RNs is stronger than is being supplied. This site-specific pediatric RN turnover rate was estimated at 15% per year, which is above the national average. METHODS A descriptive correlational study was conducted using the Revised Casey-Fink Nurse Retention Survey tool. RESULTS The top 2 areas that impacted nursing retention at this study site were workplace morale, and pay and benefits. These data are inconsistent with multiple other studies where decreased job satisfaction and burnout were top factors in nursing retention. CONCLUSIONS Although national data reveal reasons for leaving an institution or the profession, it is important to survey the local workforce to identify areas for focus in retention efforts.