Exploring incentives for RNs to return to practice: a partial solution to the nursing shortage.

Full Abstract

Although many have suggested strategies to resolve the nursing shortage, few have considered inactive RNs. This pilot study investigated reasons why nurses leave the practice, the type of work environment and resources necessary to entice RNs to return to practice, and the specific skills required to assist RNs in feeling confident and competent to return to practice. Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory was used to study motivation and hygiene factors enticing RNs to practice. A screening questionnaire was sent to 1,004 randomly selected RNs in Missouri to determine who were licensed but not practicing. Fifty-two full questionnaires were mailed and 33 (63%) were returned. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, whereas qualitative data were coded and analyzed using manifest content analysis. The lack of motivators such as recognition of one's work and achievements was one reason why RNs left the practice. The hygiene factors of money, improved working conditions, refresher courses, and health insurance would motivate RNs to return to practice. Those wishing to entice inactive nurses to practice will need to offer sign-on bonuses or make the hourly wages and benefits package very competitive. This study indicates that nurses value flexible working hours, part-time opportunities, consideration of family lives, and positive relationships with administrators.

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Author information

Author/s: Langan, Joanne C (JC); Tadych, Rita A (RA); Kao, Chia-Chan (CC);

Affiliation: Doisy College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA. langanjc(-atsign-)slu.edu

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Journal of professional nursing : official journal of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (J Prof Nurs), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: -2007 Jan-Feb; vol 23 (issue 1) : pp 13-20

Dates: Created 2007/02/12; Completed 2007/04/20;

PMID: 17292129, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 12/26/2008)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Adult
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Attitude of Health Personnel
Clinical Competence
Education, Nursing, Continuing
Employment - organization & administration; psychology
Female
Health Services Needs and Demand
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Missouri
Motivation

Motivation
Nursing Administration Research
Nursing Methodology Research
Nursing Staff - education; organization & administration; psychology
Occupational Health
Personnel Selection - organization & administration
Personnel Staffing and Scheduling - organization & administration
Personnel Turnover - statistics & numerical data
Pilot Projects
Psychological Theory
Qualitative Research
Questionnaires
Salaries and Fringe Benefits
Self Efficacy

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