Strong working relationships, career advancement opportunities and access to resources are the key factors to enhance recruitment and retention of millennial and Gen Z nurses, according to a survey released by HCA Healthcare. The study identified major influences on millennial and Gen Z nurses when evaluating current or future employment options.

“The survey results highlight the importance of providing a transparent environment that gives nurses a sense of belonging while serving a greater purpose,” said Jason Dorsey, president and lead researcher at CGK. 

Survey results include:

• Nearly half of millennial and Gen Z nurses, 44%, rated team and managerial relationships as the top dynamics in a positive work environment.
• Forty-two percent of nurses surveyed cited communication and the ability to make clinical decisions as important factors.
• Forty-three percent said the opportunity to grow professionally through career advancement was a crucial factor impacting the work environment.
• More than a quarter of nurses, 28%, also cited the importance of modern facilities and updated equipment as a factor in a positive work environment.

The survey also found that support characteristics such as scheduling flexibility, staffing levels, personal relationships, teamwork, training and the ability to have a voice in the organization were rated as “important” or “very important” by 43% to 46% of nurses. Almost half of the survey’s participants, 49%, cited flexible work schedules as the top way to help nurses feel supported, while 47% said having a clear pathway to sharing your ideas or having your concerns heard helps them feel supported.

HCA Healthcare commissioned the study, which was conducted by the Center for Generational Kinetics. The survey included 1,000 millennial nurses and 250 Gen Z nurses.