A variety of sources reveal that on average 1 in 5 nurses leave their first job within the first year of nursing. And some of these people leave nursing altogether. How do you know what facility is right for you? How do you know what facility is “good”? Below I reveal my top few green flags for a nursing facility (based on my own experience).
- Friendly work environment- Nurses helping nurses, interdisciplinary communication, etc.
- Open communication- Management will not hold any information from staff.. this can come in direct communication, emails, posters, etc. Also, have the ability to speak to leaders when a problem/idea arises
- Resources- Can you always find/have what you need to perform nursing duties?
- Culture of professional development/learning- Ask about tuition reimbursement, certifications, raises, committee involvement, etc.
- Benefits
- Ability to transfer specialties
- Ratios- Med-Surg averages 1 nurse to 5-6 patients
- High patient satisfaction ratings- Medicare.gov posts hospital survey statistics
- Nursing recognition- How do they represent/honor the so-called “heroes”? Nursing awards, posters, gifts, spotlights, etc.
- How do they prevent burnout?
- Scheduling- do you have any say? PTO? Overtime
Until next shift,
Shania