title: Engagement in RNs working in Magnet®-designated hospitals: exploring the significance of work experience.
abstract: This study analyzed and evaluated the relationships between work engagement (WE) and work experience among acute-care RNs in Magnet®-designated hospitals. The organizational structures of Magnet-designated hospitals are recognized to promote RN engagement, yet limited knowledge exists on engendering engagement to the same degree in all nurses. The study used a descriptive, correlational design. A convenience sample of RNs (n = 220) completed 2 surveys to measure WE, RN experience, and unit longevity (years of experience in the current setting). Significant relationships were found between WE and RN experience in any setting, within the consistent organizational structures of Magnet-designated hospitals. This study highlights the importance of organizational structures and the significance of RN experience in creating engagement among nurses. Enhancing engagement in the RN workforce facilitates retention and improved outcomes for patients, nurses, and organizations.
authors.affiliation: School of Nursing, Indiana University, Bloomington. awonder@indiana.edu
authors.forename: Amy
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Hagedorn Wonder
mesh_terms: D003406:Credentialing / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006757:Hospital Units / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006761:Hospitals / Q000145:classification*; D006801:Humans; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D015146:Midwestern United States; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000592:standards; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000523:psychology*; D010558:Personnel Loyalty; D013997:Time Factors