Perceived Autonomy and Anticipated Turnover: The Mediation Role of Burnout Among Critical Care Nurses

Background: Several factors are associated with the nurse anticipated turnover rate, including factors related to the staff, organisation, and management and leadership practices. Nurses in critical care areas (intensive care units and emergency rooms) demonstrated a higher anticipated turnover rate compared to nurses in other healthcare areas. There is evidence that imposing autonomy through managerial intervention is imperative, leading to increased confidence among nurses in terms of decision-making and enhancing their well-being, thus improving their performance, job satisfaction, and job retention. Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the mediating effect of burnout on the association between perceived autonomy and anticipated turnover among critical care nurses. Design: We utilized a cross-sectional descriptive survey design. Methods: We collected data from 134 nurses working in critical care areas using convenient sampling through an online survey. For data analysis, we utilized the Hayes process macro to examine the mediation model. Results: In this study, perceived autonomy was a significant negative predictor of nurses' anticipated turnover, and this association is partially mediated by nurses' emotional exhaustion. Conclusions: Nurse managers and policymakers should strive to support the autonomy and psychological well-being of critical care nurses as they play an important professional role within the healthcare team.