Making Connections Between Multiple Data Sources to Improve Nurse Satisfaction and Retention

Purpose:
The purpose of the presentation is to emphasize the multifaceted approach used to improve nurse job satisfaction at this 339 bed acute care facility in the Northeast. The project spanned over three years utilizing NDNQI data from 2006- 2009, as well as other information

Significance:
Nurses' satisfaction with their role in the nursing profession is a significant concern for nurse leaders. The nursing shortage has pushed recruitment and retention of qualified nurses to a pivotal point in the delivery of quality care. Job satisfaction is a complex issue that must be addressed.

Strategy and Implementation:
The project team included an expert consultant who worked with nursing leaders and NDNQI data analysis to identify areas that were opportunities for improvement. This presentation is relevant for nurse leaders, educators, and Performance improvement project managers who are interested in exploring initiatives that effectively use NDNQI Data for application to their own institutions. The presentation will be focused on the process, implementation and outcomes. This three year initiative began by identifying the cause of decreases in the RN satisfaction score. The information highlights how the NDNQI data drove the focus group methodology to generate more specific findings. Integrating the focus group findings and the NDNQI data, led to implement interventions directed toward the areas of work environment, communication, job enjoyment and RN job plans for next year. Interventions included changes in communication with colleagues and leadership as well as organizational initiatives.

Evaluation:
The outcomes included improved scores in work environment (decision making, autonomy), and job enjoyment scores. There was an increase in RNs reporting plans to stay on the same unit as well. A decrease in RN turnover occurred, indicating improved RN work satisfaction and retention.

Implications for Practice:
Participants will learn the steps of developing alternative ways to apply information from trending NDNQI survey data. This project has significant implications for nurse leaders to provide a variety of methods to gather, analyze and utilize valuable information to improve quality nursing practice.