Organizational structures and outcomes of newly hired and experienced nurse practitioners in New York State

Abstract

Background: Given the projected increase in the nurse practitioner (NP) workforce, the number of NPs in health care organizations will grow. However, little is known about the capacity of these organizations to create conducive environments for NP practice.

Purpose: Examine and compare the NP patient panel, job satisfaction, turnover intentions, and organizational structures of NPs with less than three (newly hired) and more than three (experienced) years of experience in their current job.

Methods: An online survey of New York State Nurse Practitioner Association members was conducted in 2012; 278 NPs completed measures of NP patient panel, job satisfaction, turnover intentions, and organizational structures.

Discussion: Both newly hired and experienced NPs faced organizational challenges such as poor relations with administration and lack infrastructure for care. Newly hired NPs were twice more likely to have turnover intentions.

Conclusion: These organizational barriers should be addressed by administrators to assure optimal NP practice.

Keywords: Nurse practitioner; Organizational structures; Work experience.