Exploring Relationships and Predictors of Job Embeddedness and Intent to Stay in Acute Care Registered Nurses

Background: Registered nurse turnover is an enduring, ubiquitous global concern exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. An estimated 13 million worldwide nursing shortage is projected with increased domestic U.S. 2021 turnover and vacancy rates. Examining phenomena, such as job embeddedness (JE), may provide further insight into nurses’ multifaceted reasons for remaining in a position. Evidence shows that nurse-leader influence and nurses’ financial situations are also factors associated with JE and intent to stay (ITS). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the relationships and predictors between nurse participants’ characteristics (including direct nurse leader [DNL] influence, familial financial contribution [FFC], JE, and ITS). Methods: This was a quantitative exploratory-descriptive correlational research study. Registered nurses working at the hospital were invited to complete a demographic survey—the 40-item Job Embeddedness Instrument. Additional items were included: ITS, DNL influence on ITS, and FFC. Results: One hundred and forty-three nurses participated in the study. Correlation results showed a relationship between ITS and years worked at the hospital (r = -.22, p = .01), and a relationship between ITS and DNL influence on ITS (r = .34, p < .001; r = .41, p < .001). Relationships were also revealed between ITS and level of FFC (r = .59, p < .001; r = .74, p < .001). Furthermore, relationships were found between JE and DNL influence on ITS (r = .47, p < .001) and level of FFCs (r = .71, p < .001). Relationships were also found between JE and ITS (r = .85, p < .001; r = .51, p < .001). Linear regression showed that FFC, DNL influence, and nursing role were predictors of ITS, with JE having a moderating effect between nursing role and ITS. Discussion: The results suggest the need for proactive strategies for early identification of potential intent to leave, nurse leader conduction of “Stay Conversations,” and strengthening the nurse-leader relationship (e.g., purposeful leadership rounding) to promote JE and ITS.