The Unfolding Model of Voluntary Turnover: An Analysis and Evaluation.

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Hospital nurse turnover is a global concern. This author aims to analyze and evaluate the unfolding model of voluntary turnover (UMVT) theory, initially theorized by Lee and Mitchell in 1991, to determine its current usage related to nursing turnover. Methods: A literature search was conducted using the search phrases "unfolding theory of turnover" and "unfolding model of voluntary turnover" to identify empirical evidence. Full-text, English-only journals that primarily utilized the UMVT theory on nurses or other service industries were selected for inclusion. Of the 57 articles identified, 11 were deemed appropriate for analysis. The six steps outlined by Walker and Avant (2019) were used for theory analysis, while Bedow's (2017) points of internal and external criticisms were used to evaluate the theory. Results: The UMVT theory has been tested on a variety of populations, including nurses. This has resulted in new insights into profession-specific turnover and understanding one's decision-making process related to turnover. Despite its decreased usage in the past decade, this theory still underscores benefits for hospital administrators to better understand nursing turnover. Although this theory is not currently ideal for explaining turnover in all populations, such as new graduate nurses or more irrational decision-makers, continued testing of the theory may provide new knowledge regarding voluntary turnover in nursing and highlight areas for refinement. Implications for Practice: The UMVT theory has demonstrated an ability to understand turnover in a variety of professions but remains underresearched internationally. Therefore, new opportunities to test this theory globally are present.