The study's figures include incentives such as sign-on bonuses, relocation packages and referral bonuses as well as recruitment advertising expenditures. Recruiter Joan Orseck, RN, president of the National Association for Health Care Recruitment, believes many nurses want to remain in hospital settings but can't find the flexibility they need in scheduling, salary and educational opportunities. Back to Top Bonuses and other incentives may draw nurses, says Orseck, but other factors are important to retaining them. Because job satisfaction is key to retention, she believes that looking at morale among nurses is important and that being proactive in understanding RNs' needs has never been more critical. Nurses are working harder than ever, but I still hear them speak of the rewards of their work.
Training is another way healthcare facilities can maximize the use of scarce resources.
Providing internships and extensive orientations to nurses without experience is a growing trend. At Orseck's hospital, in addition to offering critical care courses four times a year, the facility offers an oncology internship and a 12-week program in cardiac arrest. It would be difficult to overemphasize the importance of nursing to the well being of the worldwide community and the institution of healthcare. And it is vital that healthcare institutions develop a recruitment message that addresses the needs of nursing professionals with sensitivity. Talk to your family, neighbors and those in your communities.