Searching for a nursing job in an increased complexity of the labour market: An integrative review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction: Recently, the unemployment ratio for nurses at European level reached 9% and an increased among nurses has been reported around the world. In several countries, such as Italy, searching for a nursing job has become a complex challenge. However, factors affecting the success in finding a nursing position have not received attention to date.

Methods: Aiming to synthesize the knowledge available on the process of searching for a job as a nurse, an integrative review of the literature was performed. A total of 419 articles were retrieved and 126 studies were eligible. Two researchers working independently have scrutinized the eligible articles. A total of 6 studies have been included and a content analysis was performed.

Results: A content analysis of the studies was performed and the articles were categorized in accordance to the key findings in three themes: 1) voluntary and forced unemployment; 2) strategies adopted by nurses in searching for a job; and 3) factors influencing success in searching for a nursing job. Individual factors may play a great role in finding a nursing job in times of economic crisis. The lack of clinical preparedness and managerial competence perceived by newly graduated nurses may affect their success in searching for a nursing job.

Conclusions: Newly graduated should be prepared to face with the challenging process of finding a nursing job. Different policies have been suggested at individual, faculty and hospital levels.