The decision process of leaving nursing

Abstract

This article reports the findings of a research study investigating the decision process of former division one nurses in deciding to leave the profession. Semi-structured interviews were conducted wi th 29 par t icipants. For many participants, leaving nursing was not an easy decision. This article outlines the decision processes of five of the study participants to illustrate the complex psychological process associated with quitting. The insight gained may shed light on how to entice back nurses who have left the profession and address the needs of those thinking of leaving.