Professional experiences and decisions to return to work among nurses about to retire: A descriptive qualitative...

The global nursing workforce faces a critical shortage, intensified by the retirement of experienced nurses. While retired nurses represent a valuable resource to alleviate this shortage, understanding of the professional experiences and return-to-work decisions of nurses approaching retirement remains limited.

This study aimed to explore the professional experiences and the decision-making processes regarding returning to work among nurses nearing retirement.

A descriptive qualitative study was conducted in Mainland China from June 2024 to June 2025. Using purposive sampling, registered nurses aged fifty years or older and currently in practice were recruited. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews until thematic saturation was achieved. Data analysis was performed using qualitative content analysis.

A total of 24 eligible nurses who were about to retire participated in this study. Five primary themes emerged: (1) A career journey marked by fulfilling milestones and persistent challenges, shaping a strong professional identity; (2) Ambivalence towards retirement, blending anticipation for rest with fears of losing identity and social connections; (3) A willingness to return to work contingent on flexible arrangements, meaningful roles aligned with expertise, and supportive policies; (4) A strong desire to legacy their wisdom through mentorship and knowledge sharing; (5) A call for institutional flexibility, policy adjustments, and a cultural shift to value senior nurses.

Nurses approaching retirement possess a strong professional identity and are willing to return under specific conditions. To harness this potential, healthcare institutions and policymakers must create senior-friendly roles, ensure fair compensation and legal protection, and foster a culture that respects experience. Effectively reintegrating these seasoned nurses is a viable strategy to mitigate workforce shortages and enhance healthcare system resilience.