Objectives

The aims of this study were to examine the relationship between 1-year retention of newly licensed RNs (NLRNs) employed in hospitals and personal and hospital characteristics, and determine which characteristics had the most influence.

Methods

A secondary analysis of data collected in a study of transition to practice was used to describe the retention of 1464 NLRNs employed by 97 hospitals in 3 states. Hospitals varied in size, location (urban and rural), Magnet® designation, and university affiliation. The NLRNs also varied in education, age, race, gender, and experience.

Results

The overall retention rate at 1 year was 83%. Retention of NLRNs was higher in urban areas and in Magnet hospitals. The only personal characteristic that affected retention was age, with younger nurses more likely to stay.

Conclusion

Hospital characteristics had a larger effect on NLRN retention than personal characteristics. Hospitals in rural areas have a particular challenge in retaining NLRNs.