Relationship of Work Environment on Novice Nurses’ Turnover Intentions

Objectives A supportive and well-organised work environment is crucial for reducing nurse turnover, particularly among novice nurses in India. Challenges such as heavy workloads, lack of recognition, inadequate support systems, and poor work–life balance contribute to job dissatisfaction and drive many nurses to seek opportunities abroad. This study examined whether the work environment influences turnover intentions among novice nurses. Material and Methods The study used a descriptive correlational design. Purposive sampling was used to find new nurses with ≤1 year of work experience. 51 qualified nurses who provided complete responses were used in the analysis. A baseline proforma was used to begin data collection, and then the Practice Work Environment Scale and the Nurse Turnover Intention Scale were given out. Results Although it was not statistically significant, a negative correlation between practice work environment and nurse turnover intention was found (r = –0.201, p = 0.157), suggesting that better practice environments were linked to somewhat lower turnover intentions. According to regression analysis, there was a slight decrease in turnover intention for every unit rise in practice environment score; the effect size was tiny. Conclusion The negative correlation observed clearly advocates the influence of the work environment on nurse retention, though the relationship was weak. The findings from the turnover scale emphasise that workload, salary dissatisfaction, and external opportunities are the decisive factors that lead to nurses’ intention to leave. While factors like resource allocation, staffing inadequacy, and interprofessional collaboration remain important, targeted strategies addressing staffing, fair compensation, and career development are essential to strengthen workforce stability.