Newly Licensed RN Retention: Hospital and Nurse Characteristics. (October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Blegen, Mary A.; Spector, Nancy; Lynn, Mary R.; Barnsteiner, Jane; Ulrich, Beth T.
• Is Part Of: Journal of nursing administration. Volume 47:issue 10(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-10
• Subjects: Nursing services -- Administration -- Periodicals; 610.7305
• DOI: 10.1097/NNA.0000000000000523
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0002-0443

Abstract

Abstract : OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to examine the relationship between 1-year retention of newly licensed RNs (NLRNs) employed in hospitals and personal and hospital characteristics, and determine which characteristics had the most influence. METHODS: A secondary analysis of data collected in a study of transition to practice was used to describe the retention of 1464 NLRNs employed by 97 hospitals in 3 states. Hospitals varied in size, location (urban and rural), Magnet® designation, and university affiliation. The NLRNs also varied in education, age, race, gender, and experience. RESULTS: The overall retention rate at 1 year was 83%. Retention of NLRNs was higher in urban areas and in Magnet hospitals. The only personal characteristic that affected retention was age, with younger nurses more likely to stay. CONCLUSION: Hospital characteristics had a larger effect on NLRN retention than personal characteristics. Hospitals in rural areas have a particular challenge in retaining NLRNs.