Proforma

4 COMPREHENSIVE NURSE RETENTION PROGRAM The average turnover rate for bedside registered nurses has risen to 14.2% nationally, and continues to pose a challenge for hospital administrators as the economy improves. The high costs of turnover for each nurse who leaves can seriously impact a hospital's bottom line. In fact, the average hospital loses approximately $4.4 million per year to turnover, yet fewer than half of hospitals have a retention strategy. When nurse turnover is high, morale, patient care and recruitment suffer. We looked at the daily activity of nurses to identify ways to ease stress, improve efficiencies and keep them energized throughout the day with the use of promotional products. Coffee is the preferred kick-start to most nurses' shifts. As they navigate their day, they need to stay hydrated and nourished to ensure a high level of performance. As nursing is a hands on job, it is also important to stay physically fit. Therefore, we offered an assortment of drinkware styles, health trackers and insulated food storage options to help prepare and equip nurses to manage an often busy and stressful day in the hospital. Technology has transformed today's hospital environment. The use of tablets and smartphones has become critical for managing patient care and schedules. We recommended a variety of tech items to help the hospital staff stay connected and organized while on the go. These items include powerbanks, ear buds and a variety of bags to help carry their necessities. Over a six-month period, a new product was given out each month at their staff meetings to build morale and increase engagement. The items were branded with the hospital name and an inspirational message. The items were strategically selected and purchased prior to the kick-off of the program. We inventoried the future giveaways and worked with the hospital's HR department to ensure on-time delivery of each gift. RESULTS: The retention program was a success as the hospital experienced a reduction in turnover by 20%, resulting in a savings of nearly $500,000. By providing the nursing staff with products selected to improve their daily efficiency, while recognizing their contributions, the nurses were making on a daily basis, job satisfaction increased. This resulted in a more energized team environment and ultimately reduced costs.

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