Factors influencing retention of nurses at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital

Abstract

This study investigated motivational factors influencing retention of nurses at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra. It also looked at the measures that can be put in place at the hospital to improve retention of nurses in that health institution. Questionnaire was the instrument that was used to generate the data for the study from 120 nurses who worked at the hospital. These nurses were sampled using simple random sampling method from six departments at the hospital. The data gathered from the respondents were used to answer the five research questions that were raised. Data were analysedusing frequencies and percentages. The results showed that there was good human relationship among the nurses and they were also satisfied with the performance appraisal at the hospital. They were however dissatisfied with transportation system, accommodation, workload and lack of involvement of nurses in decision making at the hospital. Also, it was realized that the following could compel them to leave the hospital: lack of supplies and logistics, lack of opportunity to upgrade their skills and knowledge through study leave, while employment of more hands to help them, respect from doctors and other health workers, good communication channel and opportunity for nurses to be part of decision making would motivation the nurses to reduce attrition at the hospital. It is therefore recommended to authorities of the hospital to provide the nurses with the things they did not enjoy, improve the conditions that they were not satisfied with and involve them in decision making of issues that affect them.