Using evidence-based approaches to strategically respond to the nursing shortage

The purpose of this article is to describe how evidence-based methods were used to create a strategic plan for recruitment and retention of nursing staff. Collecting data on the nursing workforce, thorough review and critique of the literature, and linking the literature to strategic goals and imperatives were accomplished. The success of the strategic plan requires much more than an evidence-based approach, however. Indeed, success is largely dependent on a radical change in culture. The long view is to create a patient-centered culture where spiritual values are integrated with knowledge and skill, resulting in competent caring for patients and families. That vision requires the recruiting and retention of competent and caring nurses. To retain rather than recruit nurses, the organizational culture must become a good place within which to work. Espousing spiritual values is not enough. Current employees and newcomers must recognize these values in the behaviors of staff, managers, and leaders. Beyond evidence-based methods, values integration is critical. In the end, it is the values-based behaviors of people rather than the evidence or the strategic plan that should allow this system to effectively confront and manage the continuing nursing shortage.