What are the experiences of nurses returning to work following maternity leave: a scoping review

There are currently significant concerns regarding the shortage and retention of nurses across the globe. Approximately 90% of the global nursing workforce is currently made up of females, yet there remains a notable absence of literature surrounding the experiences of nurses returning to work following maternity leave. The return-to-work period following maternity leave is a complex transition where women are faced with a multitude of challenges which may lead to increased work-family conflict. This is of concern given that work-family conflict has been identified as a key contributor influencing nurses' intention to leave. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for mothers to take career breaks, work part-time, or leave the workforce altogether following maternity leave. Therefore, it is essential to explore nurses' experiences returning to work following maternity leave and the factors influencing their retention.

A scoping review was undertaken which was guided by the Arksey and O'Malley (2005) framework, in conjunction with the PRISMA (PRISMA-ScR) (2020) checklist. The search encompassed four databases, focusing on the inclusion of research studies published within the past 5 years. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) 2018 was utilised to ensure the inclusion of high-quality articles.

In total, six studies were incorporated into the review, comprising of a diverse array of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. These methodologies encompassed semi-structured interviews, focus groups, surveys, and self-assessments. From these studies, a variety of themes emerged, including the challenges of managing shift work, the level of support provided by supervisors, obstacles encountered in breastfeeding despite existing policies, difficulties associated with childcare, and levels of engagement within the workplace.

Overall, the review highlighted several challenges and themes that nurses face when returning to work following maternity leave. Despite this, there is a gap in the literature regarding the factors that influence nursing retention following maternity leave. Future research should focus on further exploring the experiences of nurses returning to work following maternity and the factors that influence them to stay or leave.