Authors (including presenting author) :
Yao PWS(1)(2)(3), Au Yeung ML(1)(3), Law MY(1)(3), Cheung LL(1)(3), Shing KM(1)(3), Cheung ST(1)(3), Chow KF(1)(3), Wong HK(1)(3), Fan SS(1)(3), Ng KW(1)(3), Yu HT(1)(3), Lee KJA(1)(3), Siu YS(1)(3), Lam WSJ(1)(3), Kwok CH(1)(3), Chong YK(1)(3), Chan CM(1)(3), Chiu KC(1)(3), Yuen SWP(1)(3), Leung FYC(1)(2), Chan LT(1)(2), Fong WC(1)(2)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, (2)Medical Department Training Committee, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, (3)Taskforce on Nurse Retention, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Staff Retention
Keyword 2: :
Fresh Nursing Graduate
Introduction :
Department of Medicine faces a longstanding shortage in nursing staff as a result of high turnover, job dissatisfaction & stress which poses strain in clinical operation & impact on quality patient care. Thus Taskforce on Nurse Retention for Fresh Graduate (FG) was set up in June 2024.
Objectives :
- To improve FG retention rate
- To provide personalized support & mentorship
- To enhance communication & build network among FG - To engage frontline nurses on staff retention
- To build up a supportive culture in medical wards
Methodology :
A Task Force on Nurse Retention Program 莘伙同行 which includes DOM, WMs & APNs was set up to identify gaps in FG adaptation & review orientation program. Twelve APNs were recruited as Group Pa or Ma. Each one will take care of 5 FG out of their working unit. They provide personalized support & guidance to FG when ward mentor was not available or with different views. FG can directly approach them for queries, feedbacks or emotional support in their work. To facilitate FG to adapt in busy medical wards, a series of zoom sharing session “MEDFLEX” was held each month to transfer practical knowledge & share experience with FG. Additionally, regular meetings were arranged with FG to explore their difficulties and emotional support & follow up afterwards.
Result & Outcome :
Evaluation on the Peer Support Program was conducted to assess whether it could improve FG retention. 62 FG have participated the program with 8% resigned because of personal reason and other job offers. In contrast, 14% Nursing Graduate 2023 resigned mainly due to burnout, working environment and job dissatisfaction. Survey was conducted and 88 % rated Peer Support Program as extremely or very effective. 91% rated MEDFLEX useful in their daily work. They have positive feedback towards Group Pa / Ma and all would recommend it to the coming FG. The Peer Support Program has led to a 6 % improvement in FG retention. It is effective in supporting FG through the crucial transition to independent practice. FG reported feeling well supported & take up role as team in-charge effectively. The positive impact and culture also led to movement of nurses to medical department after generic rotation.
