Supporting nurse managers in creating a culture of retention

Dire predictions for the future continue to dominate discussion of workforce issues in todayʹs hospitals. Even organizations not currently dealing with shortages of key personnel will be met with the challenge of maintaining a vibrant workforce in the face of impending baby-boomer retirees. Although nurse managers are considered the chief retention officers for their departments and increasingly are being held tightly accountable for results that demonstrate retention, their capacity for taking on this responsibility must be evaluated. This study investigated what nurse managers actually do that creates a positive work environment in their departments. Based on these findings, recommendations for supporting first-line nurse leaders are offered.