The effects of clinical competence and field adaptation on the retention intention of new nurses

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of clinical competence and field adaptation on new nurses’ retention intention and to suggest strategies to improve their intention to stay.Methods: This study used a descriptive correlational design and was conducted from June 1 to July 20, 2023. A structured questionnaire was used, targeting new nurses with only 3 to 12 months of clinical experience. Data was collected through an online site used by nurses. The collected data were analyzed by frequency and percentage, independent t-test, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and multiple linear regression. All analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0.Results: A total of 173 new nurses participated in this study. The results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that the factors influencing retention intention of new nurses were field adaptation (β=.38, <i>p</i><.001), professional pride as a reason for retention (β=.24, <i>p</i>=.003), and current salary of 2.5 to 3.0 million won (β=-.14, <i>p</i>=.049).Conclusion: Hospitals and nursing education organizations need educational approaches that enhance the field adaptation and professional pride of new nurses so that they can be successfully retained in the workplace.