Creating more flexible hours is what's going to keep nurses here. Olson said that a big challenge is scheduling and being flexible. Patti DePompei, director of nursing at University Hospitals, said that the need to staff around the clock is a challenge, especially with the different levels of expertise needed. To attract nurses who've been out of the field, University Hospitals is providing a RN Refresher Program designed for inactive RNs or nurses in non-acute settings who are interested in updating their knowledge and skills in preparation for returning to acute care. DePompei said that the response to the program has been good and that nurses are excited to welcome colleagues back to the field.
Some hospitals offer to help pay student loans to attract new graduates.
Besides graduates, students in their junior year are being recruited by hospitals to commit to working as soon as possible. Kent State nursing student Jen Yarnall said that during her five clinical rotations, hospitals have heavily recruited her and other students. She notes that most hospitals now have signing bonuses to attract students, as well as extern and nursing assistant programs. I think hospitals are starting to treat nurses better, because they are losing so many. Yarnall said that although recruitment activities are trying to make hospitals look enticing, she thinks the best way to get nurses is a good work environment.