Unlocking retention: a prescriptive framework for retaining trained staff in critical care units

Purpose Nurse turnover in critical care units (CCU) significantly affects patient outcomes and health systems worldwide. To safeguard patient care quality, hospitals must address the underlying reasons for turnover and strategize to retain their skilled nursing workforce. The study proposes a prescriptive framework to reduce nurse turnover in CCUs. Design/methodology/approach In this study, the integrated methodology of Delphi-AHP-Entropy was used for the comparative prioritization of factors and subfactors that influence nursing staff turnover in CCUs. Findings Study findings reveal that “Organizational factors” and “Individual factors” dictate critical care nurse attrition rate. At the subfactor level, staffing policy, chronic fatigue, and perceived career are the leading concerns for the decision of nurses whether to work or leave. Research limitations/implications This study is valuable for both researchers and healthcare professionals. It examines whether actions related to nurse retention align with existing theory and identifies areas requiring further theoretical or applied studies to enhance understanding in this area. This insight can bolster the field’s knowledge base and integrate theoretical and applied knowledge effectively. Additionally, for healthcare professionals, the study provides an overview of key factors conducive to retaining nursing staff in the CCU, offering valuable guidance for implementing effective strategies. Originality/value This study uniquely positions itself by presenting a comprehensive and prescriptive framework for critical care nurse retention in the UAE.