Effects of the Work Environment on Turnover Intentions among Psychiatric Nurses: The Mediating Role of Burnout

This study aims to examine the impact of the work environment on turnover intention among psychiatric nurses and to investigate the mediating role of burnout in this relationship. This cross-sectional study included 168 psychiatric nurses working in various psychiatric hospitals in Turkey. Data were collected via a demographic information form, the Nursing Work Environment Index (NWEI), the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), and the Turnover Intention Scale. Spearman correlation analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) were employed to assess the relationships between the variables. Our findings indicate that the nursing work environment has a negative effect on turnover intention (β = -0.179, p < .009). Conversely, burnout positively affects turnover intention (β = 0.501, p < .001). Additionally, burnout was found to significantly mediate the relationship between the work environment and turnover intention (β= -0.221, p < .001). Improving the work environment of psychiatric nurses is critical for reducing burnout and lowering turnover intention. Managerial support, leadership, and enhanced resources may be crucial in lowering turnover intention.