Nursing Retention Strategies in the Acute Care Setting

Abstract

The ongoing nursing shortage presents a critical challenge to healthcare systems globally. The aim of this study was to identify the retention strategies discussed in literature that had the greatest impact on nursing retention. Increased patient loads, occupational stress, and burnout contribute to nurse retention, further exacerbating staffing shortages and financial costs. This integrative literature review examines the primary factors influencing nursing turnover and identifies effective retention strategies to mitigate this issue. Key determinants of turnover include lack of organizational support, compassion fatigue, and inadequate onboarding. The review identifies four key strategies for mitigating turnover intention among nurses: preceptorship and mentorship programs, adjustments in leadership styles, enhanced organizational support, and the promotion of professional networking and social support. Each of these approaches plays a vital role in improving nurse retention by fostering job satisfaction, reducing compassion fatigue, and cultivating a supportive work environment. Organizational healthcare leaders can use this information to combat the issue of nursing retention.