Improving Nurse Retention Through Unit-Based Mentoring

Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion

Spring 5-2-2025

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Debbie Cline

Abstract

PURPOSE A quality improvement (QI) project was implemented and aimed to improve nurse retention through a unit-based mentoring program, develop nurses with less than three years of experience, and increase clinical nurse job satisfaction.

BACKGROUND Over one year, an impatient surgical unit onboarded more than ten new registered nurses, resulting in an uneven skill mix. The unit’s clinical nurse turnover in 2022 reached 32%. The goal of the QI project was to support nurses' professional development and improve nurse retention and satisfaction.

METHODOLOGY Nurses with less than three years of experience were paired with nurses with more than three years of experience. Through the direct support of unit leadership, nurse mentors/mentees were matched and supported in monthly meetings where individualized structured goals were developed. Validated tools such as Intent to Stay and Index of Work Satisfaction surveys were utilized to measure the outcome of the evidence-based quality improvement project. The unit’s clinical nurse retention was measured tracked via an electronic dashboard.

RESULTS Eleven mentor/mentee pairs continued to completion of the program. The pairs met monthly with the support of the unit leader, who scheduled and attended meetings.

After implementing unit-based mentoring, the unit’s retention increased by 8.3%, to 100%, in four months. Validated tools supported this success by indicating a 0.09 increase in nurse communication.

IMPLICATIONS Unit leaders can improve their nurse’s satisfaction and retain front-line staff by implementing a unit-based mentoring program.

Keywords

Mentoring, Nurse Retention, Unit-Based Mentoring, Clinical Nurse Job Satisfaction, Quality Improvement Project

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