Factors affecting nurses' retention in Iranian hospitals

Aim This research was conducted to study the factors affecting nurses' retention in Iranian hospitals. Background Health care systems should pay attention to their human resources' retention to deliver health care services and maintain their organizational values. This issue becomes more significant when we consider the human and financial limitations in place. Method Data were analysed using conventional qualitative content analysis based on the model developed by Elo and Kyngas. Forty-two managers and nurses were selected by purposive sampling. Data were obtained through 45 semi-structured interviews until data saturation was reached. Results The data analysis resulted in four main categories and 17 subcategories. The main categories included dignity and respect, ethics and spirituality, empathy, and flourishing. The main theme extracted was 'maternal management'. Conclusion The present study proposes 'maternal management' as a strategy to increase the retention of nurses.