J Korean Acad Nurs Adm.  2025 Jan;31(1):87-98. 10.11111/jkana.2025.31.1.87.

Structural Equation Model for Intent of Return to Nursing Practice among Inactive Korean Nurses

• Yoo JY

• KMID: 2566085
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.11111/jkana.2025.31.1.87

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to predict and test a hypothetical model for the Intent of Return to Nursing Practice(IRNP) among inactive Korean nurses and to identify the interrelationships and influences of factors affecting IRNP.
Methods
The conceptual model was developed by integrating Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behavior and Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory. Data were collected from 224 Korean nurses who experienced a career disruption of more than one year through online or offline surveys. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0 and AMOS 22.0.
Results
The average nursing care length was seven years. The primary reason for leaving practice was rotating shifts, while the main barrier to reemployment was exhaustion. Among the variables, Career Commitment (β=.59, p<.001), Nursing Work Environment (β=.37, p<.001), and Attitude (β=.32, p<.001) had significant total effects on IRNP. Career Nursing Commitment, Subjective Norm, and Attitude showed direct effects, while the Nursing Work Environment had the second-largest total effect on IRNP, acting indirect by mediating Career Commitment.
Conclusion
The findings highlight the need for collaborative efforts among nurses, family, colleagues, hospitals, professional associations, and nursing policymakers to prevent the permanent loss of skilled nursing professionals.

Keyword

Nurses; Nursing; Practical; Return to work; Structural equation modeling