title: Nurse manager perceptions of role satisfaction and retention at an academic medical center.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of inpatient acute care nurse managers (NM) employed at an academic Magnet® hospital about factors that influence NM retention, including current work environment, satisfaction, work-life balance, sucssful NM traits, and personal development and educational needs.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Nurse managers are challenged with increased workloads impacting their ability to implement all role components.
  
  
  METHODS
  A qualitative descriptive study design used focus group methodology to explore perceptions of the NM role.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Nurse managers identified staff recognition, support, peer relationships, collaboration, and ability to make positive change as factors influencing their decision to remain in the role. Burnout factors included workload issues, work-life imbalance, and difficulty sustaining positive relationships. Traits supporting success were communication, resiliency, integrity, and a visionary outlook. Suggestions for NM development and education were identified.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Findings can be used to improve NM satisfaction, work-life balance, recruitment, retention, and succession planning.
authors: College of Nursing, University of Colorado, Denver, USA. jennifer.zwink@uch.edu
authors: Jennifer E
authors: JE
authors: Zwink
authors: Maureen
authors: M
authors: Dzialo
authors: Regina M
authors: RM
authors: Fink
authors: Kathleen S
authors: KS
authors: Oman
authors: Kaycee
authors: K
authors: Shiskowsky
authors: Kathi
authors: K
authors: Waite
authors: Deborah
authors: D
authors: DeVine
authors: Carolyn L
authors: CL
authors: Sanders
authors: Jamie T T
authors: JT
authors: Le-Lazar
mesh_terms: D000046:Academic Medical Centers; D002055:Burnout, Professional; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D009718:Nurse Administrators / Q000523:psychology*; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D010558:Personnel Loyalty; D024382:Professional Role; D014940:Work Schedule Tolerance