Factors Associated with Nurses’ Intention to Leave in Saudi Arabia: A Literature Review

The nursing workforce represents a critical component of the healthcare system in Saudi Arabia, which is facing significant challenges related to retention and job satisfaction. High turnover rates among nurses not only compromise patient care quality but also place additional strain on the healthcare system. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with nurses' intention to leave their positions in Saudi Arabia, providing insights into the underlying causes of nursing turnover and suggesting potential strategies for retention. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, examining peer-reviewed articles, official reports, and relevant studies up to December 2023. The review focused on empirical research that specifically addressed the factors influencing nurses' intention to leave, including work environment, job satisfaction, leadership styles, recognition, societal norms, workload, opportunities for growth, work-life balance, and technological advancements. Quality assessment was performed using established checklists to ensure the reliability and validity of included studies. In this review, 28 quantitative studies met our inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. The findings revealed moderate levels of job satisfaction among nurses and a corresponding moderate intention to leave their current positions. Key factors influencing these outcomes included income level, nationality, work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development. Notably, a significant inverse relationship was observed between job satisfaction and the intention to leave, highlighting the importance of addressing these factors to enhance retention. Addressing nurses' intention to leave requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on improving work conditions, offering competitive rewards and recognition, fostering positive leadership and organizational culture, and providing opportunities for professional growth and work-life balance. Implementing targeted strategies that address these factors is essential for enhancing nurse retention, improving job satisfaction, and ensuring the provision of high-quality patient care in the healthcare sector of Saudi Arabia.