Turnover In Nursing

However, in 2007 the average nurse turnover rate in hospitals increased to 27.1% (AACN, 2008). The high turnover and absentee rates in the nursing profession are not simply problems in America, but other countries as well. This shortage in nurses, both in the U.S. and abroad, is causing a dilemma in the healthcare system because it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract young individuals to a career of high turnover and stress. It is also affecting the care given to patients, and the ability of nurses to adequately do their job (Aiken, Clarke, & Sloane, 2002). Nurses play an integral role in promoting quality medical care. Diers (2004) described the nursing practice and the role that nurses play in restoring health. Nursing is the
care of the sick and those who may become sick, and the maintenance of the environment in which care occurs. Nurses are also responsible for fulfilling certain aspects of the medical regimen delegated to them by physicians, such as administering medication.