Factors that Affect the Turnover Intention among Mental Health Nurses : a Descriptive Literature Review

Abstract

There exists a significant challenge of global mental health nurse shortages in healthcare systems. Mental health nurses, who account for almost half of all mental health care workers (44%), play a vital role in enhancing access to professional mental healthcare that can transform millions of lives globally for the better. The purpose of this study is to describe the factors that influence the turnover intention among mental health nurses. The aim is to provide new knowledge to be utilized about mental health nurses leaving their jobs.

A descriptive literature review was used and completed through database searches from CINAHL and PubMed, yielding twelve peer-reviewed articles conducted in nine different countries, two in Australia, China, and the United Kingdom, one in Greece, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Sweden, and the USA, selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria set by the researchers. This study provides a comprehensive analysis based on inductive content analysis to explore multiple perspectives on the subject.

Results show a multifaceted issue influenced by individual characteristics, job demands and burnout, and the nurse practice environment. These categories interact and influence each other, impacting the turnover intention of mental health nurses to leave their profession.

The discussion highlights the critical areas that require attention and intervention, providing valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare administrators, and mental health professionals seeking to address the global shortage of mental health nurses and mitigate its impact on healthcare systems and patient care in the future.