Exploring job satisfaction and turnover intentions among nurses: insights from a cross-sectional study

Objective Job satisfaction is critical for individual well-being and organizational performance, especially in healthcare. Low job satisfaction among healthcare workers is linked to higher turnover intentions, which negatively impact patient care. Although global research on job satisfaction in healthcare is extensive, studies focusing on Irish nurses, particularly post-COVID-19, are limited. This study examines job satisfaction and turnover intention among registered nurses in Ireland.Method A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to nurses registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland. Data was collected from 406 nurses in April to May 2023 using the McCloskey Mueller Job Satisfaction Scale. The association between job satisfaction and turnover intention, as well as the predictors of job satisfaction, were examined using one-way ANOVA and multiple linear regression models, respectively.Results Of the 328 valid responses, 38% indicated plans to leave their jobs within two years. Overall job satisfaction was mild to moderate, highest in control and responsibility (M = 3.30; SD = 0.98), and lowest in work schedules (M = 2.43; SD = 0.95) and coworker relationships (M = 2.30; SD = 0.84). Lower satisfaction was significantly linked to higher turnover intention (p = 0.001). Nurses in acute care settings had higher satisfaction than those in long-term care (β = 0.217; p = 0.001). Staff nurses reported higher satisfaction than nurse managers (β = 0.165; p = 0.005).Conclusion The study highlights the importance of addressing job dissatisfaction, particularly in long-term care and managerial roles, to enhance nurse retention and healthcare outcomes. Policies aim to improve nurse scheduling flexibility and workplace relationships could mitigate dissatisfaction.