An Action Research Study on Measures to Mobilize Inactive Nurses

Kim, Susie

Abstract

The purpose of this study was (1) to undertake a survey to identify the profile of inactive nurses, who account for 42.2% of the 130,000 RN(Registered Nurses) in Korea, (2) to identify factors related to the inactivation of these nurses, (3) to identify reasons behind the high turnover rate of nurses, and (4) to delineate measures for inactive nurses to participate in professional nursing activities so as to upgrade the quality of the health care delivery system in Korea. For these purposes, this study surveyed existing literature on the turnover of nurses and, used the nominal group technique of action research, to collect ideas from hospital/nurse administrators, inactive nurses, nurses on the job, graduate students in nursing, part-time nurses, patients, and their families to formulate strategies to mobilize inactive nurses. The findings are as follows : First, institutional supports should be provided to mobilize inactive nurses. To be more specific : (1) A data-base needs be created at the Korean Nurses Association to link inactive nurses with jobs available. (2) Retraining programs need be established to equip inactive nurses for new jobs. (3) Comprehensive information related to employment needs should be made available. Second, a conducive environment needs to be created to draw in inactive nurses to the job market. The be more specific. (1) A system of part-time work needs to be introduced in hospitals. (2) Nurse-specialists need to be promoted. (3) Potential jobs need to be created. (4) Working environment and terms and conditions for nurses need to be improved. (5) Competent nurses need to be secured in the health care delivery system. To achieve the goals presented above, this paper presented 55 specific strategies that may help mitigate the turmover rate of nurses and, in turn, help make the Korean Nurses Association effective in implementing its policies.