Why do perioperative nurses resign?: A qualitative study

Background: High nurse turnover rates create health care staffing challenges and contribute to negative patient outcomes. A better understanding of perioperative nurses’ decision-making regarding resignation is needed. The purpose of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of new data on turnover decision-making relative to the Perioperative Nurse Turnover Decision-Making Theory. Methods: We recruited participants through social media, then collected data using an anonymous online survey. The survey included open-ended questions exploring reasons for leaving an operating room position. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, and findings were compared with the original theory development study. Results: A total of 19 perioperative nurses from 12 US states met eligibility criteria. Multiple factors influenced resignation decisions, including negative culture, dissatisfaction with leadership and compensation, lack of professional growth opportunities, poor work–life balance, and physical and emotional demands of the job. Conclusions: The findings support using the Perioperative Nurse Turnover Decision-Making Theory and model to guide interventions aimed at improving perioperative nurses’ well-being and retention. Leaders can address modifiable factors such as workplace culture, compensation, work–life balance, and opportunities for professional development to reduce turnover and enhance nurse satisfaction.