Retaining CNAs and nurses hinges on addressing their common concerns in meaningful ways. When Nursing Leadership focuses on fostering a supportive, organized, and empowering workplace, they can build an environment where nursing staff feel valued and engaged – which makes them want to STAY within your organization! Here are five essential strategies to accomplish that goal:
1) Strengthen Support Systems for Nursing Staff:
One of the biggest complaints from nursing staff is a lack of hands-on support, especially during high-demand times. Nursing Leadership can do simple things like increase access to float staff and support roles, such as a Resident Ambassador, increase the number of Unit Managers or facilitate Leadership Rounding to ease the burden. Reliable support lets CNAs and nurses focus on quality care without feeling overwhelmed or stretched too thin.
2) Ensure Resources Are Readily Available:
For nursing teams to provide timely, effective care, they need access to basic resources that are in good working order. Leadership MUST regularly audit equipment like vital sign machines, ensure that they organize nursing stations efficiently, and develop an auditing system to track and restock supply par levels. Showing that you prioritize these essentials helps staff work more efficiently and reinforces their value to the organization.
3) Enhance Weekend Coverage & Accountability for Call-Offs:
Gaps in weekend coverage can create stress and burnout for on-duty staff. Establishing clear policies to ensure reliable weekend staffing, alongside accountability for call-offs, promotes a culture of fairness and reliability. Offering incentives or rotating schedules can also reduce weekend burnout and foster a sense of shared responsibility.
4) Offer Strong Administrative Support for Challenging Situations:
Nurses and CNAs often handle challenging interactions with patients, residents, and family members. A responsive support system for difficult situations shows staff that leadership has their backs. Implement protocols for timely administrative involvement to help manage complex situations and reinforce a culture of empathy and collaboration.
5) Build a Culture of Recognition, Safety, and Balanced Accountability:
Recognize and reward hard work to boost morale, whether through appreciation events, small bonuses, or public acknowledgments. Equally important, avoid overly authoritative, dismissive, or punitive approaches when addressing mistakes or deviations from protocol. True accountability means creating a safe space where staff feel comfortable approaching leadership about observed issues, mistakes, or protocol deviations—without fear of unfair reprisal. By fostering a balanced, open approach, leadership encourages trust, safety, and a genuine desire to uphold standards.
By valuing, supporting, and empowering your team, you’ll not only retain your current staff but attract new talent excited to be part of an environment where they’re truly appreciated.
Together, we can do this! ✨
Best Wishes,
-Damion
