8th International 19th National Nursing Congress, Ankara, Turkey, 25 - 28 September 2024, pp.358-359
Introduction and Purpose: The world increasingly needs more nurses due to the aging population and rising care demands in recent years. Türkiye is becoming a target country for recruiting nurses. This study aims to explore the fundamental mechanisms behind the emigration of nurses from Türkiye that has become prevalent after the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the motivations of these nurses and the mechanisms that manage their migration. Method: Using a qualitative research design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 licensed nurses who have either migrated abroad or made concrete preparations to migrate (such as enrolling in language courses or consulting with an agency) using a semi-structured guideline. The selection of interviewees was determined through snowball and quota sampling strategies. Thematic analysis was conducted following open and hierarchical coding using the Nvivo-14 program, resulting in a conceptual framework. Findings: According to the conceptual framework, the primary mechanism managing nurses' migration is the concept of 'value.' Push factors are categorized into three groups: country-related, financial, and occupational, while pull factors are divided into country-related and occupational categories. In push factors, country-related ones include the political atmosphere and low quality of life; financial factors consist of low purchasing power and low salaries; and occupational factors involve structural issues, lack of respect/value, and burnout. Pull factors encompass financial stability and high quality of life, as well as structural factors and respect. Additionally, migration is managed by the international neoliberal healthcare market and occupational networks among nurses. Conclusion: The perceived lack of value in their home country motivates nurses to migrate to places where their work is valued. To prevent further decline in Türkiye's position in the shrinking healthcare market, there is an urgent need to increase nurse employment domestically, addressing staffing shortages, and ensuring fair compensation, professional development, and a supportive work environment.