Exploring the factors affecting ICU nurse retention during and post-COVID-19: A qualitative descriptive interview...

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Intensive Care Units (ICUs) face significant staff turnover, a challenge intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Nurse staffing shortages in ICUs are correlated with adverse patient outcomes.
• Understanding factors influencing nurse retention is critical for maintaining quality care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key factors promoting nurse retention in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To explore the perspectives of nurses who have considered or left ICU positions.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interview study involving 19 registered nurses from a single ICU.
• Thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke's method to identify themes related to turnover and retention.
• Interviews were recorded and coded using NVivo software, adhering to COREQ standards.

Main Results:

• Four primary themes emerged influencing nurses' decisions to remain in ICU positions:
• Organizational Resources and Scheduling: Adequate resources and flexible scheduling.
• Interpersonal Factors: Positive workplace relationships and supportive colleagues.
• Mental Health Support: Access to mental health services and resources.
• Training and Career Advancement: Opportunities for professional development and career growth.

Conclusions:

• Administrative changes, supportive workplace relationships, accessible mental health services, and professional development opportunities positively influence ICU nurse retention.
• These findings provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions to improve ICU nurse retention.
• Further research into these themes can guide strategies to mitigate nurse attrition in critical care settings.