[A study of work values, professional commitment, turnover intention and related factors among clinical nurses].
BACKGROUND
The high rate of turnover in nursing positions is a global problem. There have been few studies done addressing the relationship between work values and nurse turnover intention.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between work values, professional commitment and turnover intention among clinical nurses.


METHODS
A cross-sectional survey was conducted between February 1st to March 10th, 2008 on a convenience sample of nurses, all of whom had at least a half year of work experience at one of four teaching hospitals in Taiwan.


RESULTS
A total of 289 valid responses were received, with a response rate of 96.3%. Major findings included: (1) Nurses who were older, had more years of school, had worked more years, held specific job duties, earned a higher salary, held Buddhist beliefs, or were married with two or more children presented higher work values and professional commitment and lower turnover intention; (2) As a group, total work values and professional commitment scores corresponded negatively with turnover intention scores; (3) Significant factors affecting turnover intent in clinical nurses included professional commitment, institution characteristics, Buddhist beliefs and salary. These four variables accounted for 52.2% of the variation in turnover intention.


CONCLUSIONS
This study indicated that nurses with higher work values and professional commitment tend to exhibit less turnover intention. It is highly recommended to develop strategies to bolster the teaching of altruistic values and professional commitment in nursing education in order to reduce turnover intent. Also, further studies on the influence of religious beliefs and organizational attributes on nurse turnover intentions are also suggested.
Wang
Kuei-Ying
KY
Department of Research and Development, Chang Jung Christian University, ROC.
Chou
Chuan-Chiang
CC
Huang
Jui-Lan
JL
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009726:Nurses; D010558:Personnel Loyalty; D010563:Personnel Turnover