Preferences of Israeli nursing students in choosing their future workplace

toren o., zelker r. & porat n. (2012) Journal of Nursing Management20, 45–55 Preferences of Israeli nursing students in choosing their future workplace Aim  To examine the decision-making process and factors influencing nursing students when choosing a workplace. Background  In view of the global nursing shortage, nurse recruitment strategies should address multicultural factors and students’ expectations, which may influence their workplace preference. Methods  A combined study involving qualitative (focus groups) and quantitative (questionnaire survey) methods, was carried out in a University School of Nursing in Israel. Results  Focus groups revealed that students focused on various aspects of job security and salary benefits. The perceived ‘ideal’ hospital is one with close proximity to home, offers good employment conditions and has a positive social atmosphere. Differences were found in the quantitative survey between female and male students as well as between students in the academic vs. non-academic track. Conclusions  It is important to periodically review the considerations and motives of nursing students when choosing a workplace and responsively implement various strategies to recruit new nurses. Implications for nursing management  The hospital’s image as a quality and friendly workplace should be strengthened and nursing students should be offered opportunities for professional and academic development.