5 Reasons More One-on-One Time With Nurses Improves Retention

In the healthcare industry, there are more nurses than any other profession. Currently, there are approximately 3.9 million nurses with a projected need of one million more. Shortages occur for many reasons ranging from burnout to the fact that the educational system is not turning out nurses fast enough. With an aging population and an aging nursing workforce, the need for nurses has never been greater.  

So, it is no surprise that retaining nurses is crucial. Nurse retention reduces advertisement and recruitment costs, maintains productivity, decreases patient errors, and it preserves organizational knowledge. An excellent way to improve nurse retention begins with more one-on-one time to address the needs and concerns of nurses. This meeting between you and one team member can take place in a private area with no interruptions for 20 to 30 minutes. Remember that this meeting is not a performance review, but an open forum for communication between you and the nurse. 

It Creates a Mentor for the Nurse 

Nurses, especially new nurses, need a mentor. They need someone that they can trust to answer their questions and address their concerns. A mentor makes a nurse feel uninhibited to ask questions, which could affect the safety of the patients in their care. The result is a nurse that feels more comfortable in their job, making them more apt to stay in their current position.  

Meaningful Conversation Occurs 

The one-on-one conversation opens the door for simple, authentic dialogue. It provides a forum for a nurse to share their concerns with you in a private, non-threatening environment. This conversation is not about evaluation, but rather a demonstration of caring and compassion. Communication improves retention through the creation of an infrastructure where nurses feel connected, informed, and have an influence over their work environment.  

Bonding Takes Place 

When you take the time to meet with nurses on a one-on-one basis regularly, bonds form, and the nurses feel as though they are part of the team. Research suggests that team members are more engaged when they feel a connection with their leader and their organization. This relationship is essential for improving the retention of nurses.  

It Establishes an Opportunity for Empathy 

When you take the time to meet with nurses individually, it gives you a chance to empathize with them. It provides an opportunity to partner with nurses instead of judging them. These connections give nurses the feeling that you understand their plight, and it improves their job satisfaction. The increase in job satisfaction will translate to an increase in nurse retention.  

The Chance to Know More Than a Name 

You might know the names of all your nurses. However, do you know who has a son graduating from high school? Who’s daughter is serving abroad in the military? Who is planning a wedding? Or who’s mother is ill? Getting beyond a face and a name gives your team of nurses the feeling that they count, and that you care.  

Contact Us Today

If you need help with nurse retention, contact Nursing Career Coach. Nurse retention and new hire engagement are the focus of Nursing Career Coach, a company that uses data-driven science to decrease turnover in healthcare organizations.