Factors Associated with Job Satisfaction and Intention to Leave among Nurses Working in a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The nursing shortage crisis continues to worsen globally, with significant implications for healthcare delivery. This study assessed factors associated with job satisfaction and intention to leave among nurses in a tertiary healthcare facility in Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 141 nurses at Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, using stratified sampling. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire assessing job satisfaction and intention to leave. Analysis used descriptive and inferential statistics via SPSS version 28.0.

Results: Most respondents (87.2%) were dissatisfied with their current jobs, while 88.7% reported intentions to leave. Key factors influencing satisfaction and turnover intention included salaries (99.3%), working conditions (99.3%), inadequate staffing (90.8%), and poor management attitudes (90.8%). Satisfaction with co-workers was high (93.0%), but organizational support was rated poorly (90.1% dissatisfied).

Conclusion: High levels of job dissatisfaction and turnover intention among nurses were primarily driven by systemic factors like poor remuneration and working conditions. Strategic interventions targeting these factors are needed to enhance retention.