WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT AND RETENTION OF REGISTERED PSYCHIATRIC NURSES: A MIXED-METHOD STUDY

Abstract

Background: There are projections of a significant nursing shortage in Canada, which could have negative implications for clients, nurses, and organizations. British Columbia employs 49% of Canada’s psychiatric nurses—a specialized subgroup that provides holistic care to clients, families, and communities, yet remains understudied. Purpose: The purpose was to assess psychiatric nurse intent to leave, identify their direction if leaving and understand their perspective on retention. Method: A mixed-method convergent parallel study invited psychiatric nurses in British Columbia to complete a survey. Analysis included descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis. Findings were merged for integration and reporting. Results: The survey yielded a 20% response rate (n = 302). Over half of participants desire to leave their organization within a decade, and 22% often consider leaving the profession. Priority retention strategies include supportive work environments, increased compensation and better psychological benefits. Implications: Organizations and unions can use the findings to develop retention, training, and recruitment interventions.