42 | Long Tenure: Why Nurses Choose to Stay

From New Jersey Nursing Insights · 34:30

Show by NJCCN

Why do some nurses leave bedside nursing while others stay for decades?Medical-surgical nursing is often seen as a stepping stone to other specialties. But for some nurses, it's a career worth dedicating decades to.In this episode of Nursing Insights, hosts Dr. Susan Weaver and Dr. Pamela de Cordova welcome Christine Schulz and Rose Wren, two experienced medical-surgical nurses from Community Medical Center in Toms River, New Jersey.With 16 and 20 years on their respective units, Christine and Rose share what has kept them at the bedside through demanding shifts, career challenges, and the changing expectations of a new generation of nurses.They take listeners inside a typical day on a med-surg unit, where rapid responses, complex patient needs, and constant admissions and discharges require quick thinking and exceptional teamwork. They also reflect on the deeply personal moments that remind them why they chose nursing, from helping frightened patients regain their independence to supporting individuals facing serious illness.The conversation explores the importance of supportive nurse managers, fair assignments, recognition, and a workplace culture where colleagues never leave one another struggling alone.And when Rose shares why her daughter, an aspiring nurse practitioner, wants a different work-life balance, the discussion raises an important question: What will it take to keep the next generation of nurses at the bedside?Whether you're a new nurse, an experienced bedside professional, or a nurse leader looking to improve retention, this episode offers valuable perspectives on what makes nurses stay.Key TakeawaysMed-surg is a specialty, not just a stepping stone. While some nurses use medical-surgical nursing as a foundation for other career paths, it also offers opportunities for lifelong learning and professional fulfillment.Teamwork makes difficult shifts manageable. Having colleagues who step in during emergencies, share responsibilities, and support one another is a major reason experienced nurses remain on their units.Supportive leadership improves nurse retention. Accessible managers who listen, recognize contributions, and provide hands-on assistance help create workplaces nurses want to return to.Patient relationships provide lasting purpose. Supporting recovery, comforting frightened patients, and being present for people without family support create meaningful connections that keep nurses engaged.Work-life balance matters to the next generation. Long hours, missed holidays, and demanding schedules influence how younger nurses think about their careers and future opportunities.Small acts of support can make a big difference. From a dedicated Zen room to a manager answering a call bell, practical gestures demonstrate that nurses are valued.Experienced nurses play a crucial mentoring role. Preceptorship and sharing knowledge help newer nurses build confidence, develop clinical judgment, and find their own paths in nursing.Relevant LinksNew Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing (NJCCN): https://njccn.org/Community Medical Center, Toms River (RWJBarnabas Health): https://www.rwjbh.org/community-medical-center/Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN): https://www.amsn.org/American Nurses Association (ANA): https://www.nursingworld.org/Listen to Nursing Insights for conversations about the people, challenges, and ideas shaping the nursing profession in New Jersey.

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