Reducing Nurse Turnover: A Key Strategy for Lowering Patient Falls and Costs

In hospitals, the cost to replace 1 registered nurse (RN) can be quantified by considering costs in recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes. Though the mean replacement cost of 1 RN will vary depending on geographic location and professional specialization, some have estimated this cost at $56 000. In addition to these direct costs, high turnover also contributes to broader organizational challenges, including disrupted communication, teamwork, and patient care. These challenges can contribute to adverse quality outcomes, such as increased inpatient falls. This article examines the organizational cost of RN turnover by analyzing its relationship to inpatient fall rates as an indicator of quality care.