Exploring the Perceptions of Private Sector Nursing Educators on Long-Term Retention in a Single Institution: A Qualitative Phenomenological Inquiry

This study aims to explore nurse educators' perceptions of their long-term commitment to teaching and the factors influencing their retention within a private nursing institution. Turnover among nurse educators has become a pressing concern globally, as it threatens the quality of nursing education, the stability of academic programs, and the future preparation of competent nurses. This issue is particularly critical in private institutions, where challenges in retaining experienced faculty are more pronounced. A qualitative research design was deployed. Eight nurse educators participated in two-hour, in-depth semi-structured interviews, which allowed for rich data collection. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, a method to capture participants' nuanced experiences and insights. The findings highlighted five central influences on retention: maintaining work–life balance, receiving effective leadership support, overall job satisfaction, cultural alignment within the institution, and opportunities for professional and career growth. These themes reflected the complex interplay of personal, organisational, and professional factors that shape educators' intentions to remain in or leave their positions. Based on these findings, the study recommends that institutions adopt sustainable retention strategies, including supportive leadership practices, flexible work arrangements, and transparent pathways for professional development to ensure workforce stability.