Date Available

4-25-2023

Year of Publication

2023

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advisor

Dr. Candice Falls

Committee Member

Dr. Sheila Melander

Committee Member

Dr. Patricia K. Howard

Co-Director of Graduate Studies

Dr. Katherine Rogers

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically impacted nurse retention. According to the Kentucky Nurses Association, 57% of surveyed Kentucky nurses are considering leaving their jobs. Best retention strategies are unclear. Job embeddedness (JE) and Intent to stay (ITS) are factors that influence retention. The purpose of this project is to increase JE and ITS at a level one emergency department (ED) by implementing evidence-based mentorship and social event interventions.

Methods: This study utilized a mixed-methods, one group pretest-posttest design. Mentorship pairs were matched by personality type using the Big Five Personality Test. Four mentorship discussion meetings and two social events were held over six weeks. Pre and post-test scores from the Global Job Embeddedness Scale and McCain’s Intent to Stay Scale were analyzed using paired t-tests via SPSS software. Open response findings were analyzed by the primary investigator.

Results: Twenty-six ED nurses completed the pre-surveys and eighteen completed the post surveys. Participants were mostly female (92.4%), Caucasian (84.6%), under age 30 (56.5%), and had five years or less of nursing experience (69.3%). Increases in scores on the Global Job Embeddedness Scale (p= 0.19) and McCain’s Intent to Stay Scale (p= 0.92) were non-significant. Participants suggested on-site social activities, increasing pay, increasing staff, and awarding accomplishments to improve retention.

Conclusion: Mentorship and social events may not be enough to overcome other workplace barriers that impact JE and ITS in the ED setting. Future research efforts are needed to assess the impact of the participant suggestions to improve retention.

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