Workforce management in nursing: Strategies for retention and recruitment in healthcare settings
Keywords:
Nurse retention, job satisfaction, primary healthcare, workforce management, recruitment strategiesAbstract
Background: The nursing workforce faces significant challenges related to recruitment and retention, exacerbated by an aging population and maldistribution of healthcare professionals. Job satisfaction is a crucial factor influencing nurse turnover and retention, necessitating an in-depth understanding of its determinants. Methods: This review systematically analyzed peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2016, focusing on the job satisfaction and career intentions of registered nurses in primary healthcare settings. Databases searched included CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Key search terms encompassed "nursing," "primary health care," "community care," "job satisfaction," and "career intentions." Results: Findings indicate that various factors significantly impact nurse job satisfaction, including workplace environment, organizational support, compensation, and opportunities for professional growth. The review revealed that primary healthcare nurses experience unique challenges compared to their acute care counterparts, leading to higher turnover intentions. Notably, factors such as inadequate compensation, administrative burdens, and lack of recognition were frequently reported as detrimental to job satisfaction. Conclusion: Addressing the identified factors influencing job satisfaction is essential for improving nurse retention in primary healthcare. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions by healthcare administrators and policymakers to enhance the work environment, support professional development, and improve compensation structures.
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