The mediating role of job satisfaction between leader-member exchange and turnover intentions

AIM: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether job satisfaction mediates between leader-member exchange and nurse turnover intentions. BACKGROUND: Limited knowledge is available on the mediating role of job satisfaction between leader-member exchange and turnover intentions in the nursing field. METHOD: This is a cross-sectional survey study. Data were collected in a US hospital. RESULTS: Higher leader-member exchange was associated with lower turnover intentions (β=-0.41, P<0.001). Leader-member exchange was positively related to one's job satisfaction (β=0.50, P<0.001). Job satisfaction was negatively related to turnover intentions (β=-0.64, P<0.001). When leader-member exchange and job satisfaction were both controlled for, the link between leader-member exchange and turnover intentions was no longer significant (β=-0.12, P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Job satisfaction mediates the link between leader-member exchange and turnover intentions. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: The present study reinforces the significant role of managers. Nurse managers can try to cultivate a good relationship with the nurses. This can enhance nurses' job satisfaction and in turn lower their turnover intentions.