Contextual factors influencing the turnover of nurses in specified intensive care units in the Cape Metropole

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The shortage of nurses in the intensive care units (ICU) affects both the nurse and the patient with regard to quality care and the quality of work life. Job satisfaction as well as factors within the organisation and work environment predisposes dissatisfaction. Identifying these factors may improve the quality of life at work and reduce staff shortages. The aim of this study is to evaluate the contextual factors influencing the turnover of intensive care nurses in specified hospitals in the Cape Metropole.The objectives were:• To determine the factors influencing the turnover of intensive care nurses in specified hospitals in the Cape Metropole.• To compare the findings of the data in the specified hospitals.An explorative, descriptive design with a quantitative approach has been applied. The research sample consists of all nurses working in the intensive care units in the specified hospitals at the time of the study. A convenience sampling was applied. A structured questionnaire containing predominantly closed-ended questions was used and data collection was conducted by the researcher herself. A pilot study consisting of 10% (N=21) of the sample was done in one of the hospitals to validate the reliability of the questionnaire. The 21 participants who completed the pilot test did not participate in the actual study. The reliability and validity of the findings was assured by the utilization of the statistician and experts in the nursing department.The data is presented in tables and histograms. A Chi -square test is used to test the statistical significance association between variables.Spearman's ranks (rho) order correlation is used to show the strength of the relationship between two continuous variables.The findings of the study show that discontent with salaries, inferior working environments, organisational factors, physical as well as emotional stress and the lack of career development opportunities, were major determinants in the poor quality of life at work with regard to the two set objectives.Recommendations include those for better remuneration, improved career opportunities and the creation of a safe as well as a friendly work environment. The aim is to create a positive work environment and improve the quality of life at work.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University