Publication date: Jul 01, 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a disruptive time period and led to increased turnover among perioperative nurses who were already experiencing a workforce shortage. The purpose of this study was to explore factors associated with anticipated or actual turnover among perioperative nurses after the pandemic. Using a mixed-methods design, a convenience sample of 140 certified perioperative nurses completed the Anticipated Turnover Scale; 24 were individually interviewed. Of the 140 survey respondents, 69 (49. 3%) indicated an intention to leave. Qualitative data showed that organizational leader support focused on perioperative nurses is needed to recruit and retain nurses. Suggested strategies to address turnover include facilitating knowledge transfer, mentoring recently hired perioperative nurses, maintaining quality care, developing specialized programs focused on improving competency, identifying and nurturing talented nurses, and establishing formal succession planning policies. The study was underpowered; additional research is needed on perioperative nursing workforce challenges.

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