Micro-, Meso- and Macrofactor Relationships in Nursing Turnover: Insights From Survey and Interview Data

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Healthcare Management
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Nurse retention is a significant and multifaceted challenge in healthcare.
• Understanding the complex factors influencing nursing turnover is essential for workforce stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the micro-, meso-, and macrolevel factors impacting nursing turnover.
• To explore the interplay between these different levels of influence on nurse retention.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach involving surveys (n=479) and interviews (n=35) with current and former nurses.
• Analysis of data through a systems lens, examining individual (micro), organizational (meso), and societal (macro) factors.

Main Results:

• Significant dissatisfaction reported regarding work-life balance, work control, and remuneration.
• High percentages of nurses considering leaving their organization or profession due to exhaustion, understaffing, feeling undervalued, low pay, and pressure.
• Qualitative data revealed issues including negative interactions, administrative burdens, limited autonomy, and societal perceptions impacting retention.

Conclusions:

• A systems approach is vital for comprehending and resolving nursing retention issues.
• Interventions must address the interconnectedness of micro-, meso-, and macrolevel factors to effectively improve nurse retention.