The Perceived Impact of Workplace Health Promotion Measures on Employee Retention in the Nursing Sector: Results of a Survey of Human Resources and Management in Southern Germany

Abstract

Health issues caused or exacerbated by a heavy workload are one reason for leaving the nursing profession early. Little is known about the effect and the application of health-related retention strategies in the nursing sector as well as the attitudes of the management and officers of human resources (HR) toward this topic. This survey is part of the project "ZAFH care4care". HR directors and management at all nursing institutions within one region of Southern Germany (Region Bodensee-Oberschwaben) were contacted and interviewed via questionnaire (PAPI) (N=207). The survey was the quantitative part of a sequential, mixed methods study within an exploratory design. Overall, 59 responses were received and analysed using descriptive and bivariate statistics. Among the nursing institutions surveyed, a shortage of qualified nurses and the resulting heavy workload on remaining staff proved to be common problems. In addition, every fifth nursing institution reported nurses leaving the occupation for reasons of health. The application of health promotion strategies was considered largely successful in retaining staff, but approaches related to structural prevention seemed to be given little consideration. The strong correlation between heavy workload and high rates of absenteeism, sick days, and occupational dropout among nurses highlights the need for health promotion initiatives within the field of nursing. Management and HR directors, in cooperation with other stakeholders, play a key role in fostering a healthy working environment.