VERMONT NURSES: JOB ANALYSIS & RETENTION

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Background

The Job Analysis and Retention Survey was designed to examine predictors of Vermont nurses' behavioral intentions to leave their current position or the nursing profession. Surveys were sent to a random sample of 3000 currently licensed RNs in Vermont in November 2002. A second mailing was sent to non-responders in January 2003. The survey had a response rate of 56.7% (n = 1574).

Demographics

• Median age 48.5 years old; 78% over age 40
• 95% female
• 38% BSNs, 34% ADNs, 21% diplomas, 6% Master's
• Older RNs (ages 55-65) were 22% of respondents (n=317)

Discussion

The findings of this study in combination with the previous relicensure survey suggest several strategies to retain the older nurse, as well as debunk several myths. Most importantly, the older nurse stayer in this study is clearly more satisfied with support for continued education, career development and personal growth than the leavers. It is critical for management to pay more attention to these dimensions as a support to retention.

Surprisingly, stayers were not more satisfied than leavers in the areas of pay, supervision, flexible hours or physical demands of the job. Satisfaction with job security, as well as with the integrity of the organization (as expressed in its mission and vision) was significantly higher among the older nurse stayers. The greater satisfaction among stayers in the area of independent thought and action on the job, coupled with the above, suggests that personal growth and mastery remains important throughout the professional lifespan. Together, these findings debunk the myth that older workers are merely hanging on until retirement.