‘Why Did They Migrate Here’?: A Qualitative Descriptive Study Exploring Nurses' Motivations for Migration and Regional Relocation

IF 3.4 3区医学 Q1 NURSING Journal of Advanced Nursing Pub Date : 2025-01-16 DOI:10.1111/jan.16620

Princess Villamin, Violeta Lopez, Deependra Kaji Thapa, Michelle Cleary

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Abstract

Aim

To explore migrant nurses' intrinsic and extrinsic motivations for migration and regional relocation.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 17 migrant nurses working in a hospital in regional Australia. Inclusion criteria were current employment as a nurse at the study site, obtaining an initial nursing qualification in a different country, and migrating to regional Australia within the last 7 years. Data were analysed using a thematic approach, informed by the self-determination theory.

Results

One overarching theme, seeking meaningful endeavours, was identified, with subthemes: pride in nursing, duty to family and personal satisfaction. Extrinsic motivations included financial responsibilities, visa security, professional nursing recognition and fulfilment, filial piety, family unification and overall safety and lifestyle, whereas intrinsic motivations included being a nurse and travelling.

Conclusion

Nurses' motivations for migration are complex and driven by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Extrinsic motivations may lead to self-endorsed behaviour (autonomous motivation) if they align with personal goals or values, such as family importance or regard for one's profession. All intrinsic motivations also lead to autonomous motivation, linked to well-being and workplace retention.

Implications for the Profession

This study's findings may inform organisations in source and host countries to design work conditions that foster retention. Source countries can use these insights to address the professional limitations experienced by their nurses. Host countries may design targeted strategies that promote autonomous motivation among migrant nurses, thereby enhancing job satisfaction, well-being and retention.

Impact

This study provides insight into experiences contributing to migrant nurses' relocation decisions. Practising within the scope of their professional training, performing their duties in a fulfilling way, and meeting their family obligations through reasonable pay or benefits may support nurses in remaining autonomously motivated.

Reporting Method

COREQ reporting was adhered to.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

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来源期刊

Journal of Advanced Nursing 医学-护理

CiteScore

6.40

自引率

7.90%

发文量

369

审稿时长

3 months

期刊介绍： The Journal of Advanced Nursing (JAN) contributes to the advancement of evidence-based nursing, midwifery and healthcare by disseminating high quality research and scholarship of contemporary relevance and with potential to advance knowledge for practice, education, management or policy. All JAN papers are required to have a sound scientific, evidential, theoretical or philosophical base and to be critical, questioning and scholarly in approach. As an international journal, JAN promotes diversity of research and scholarship in terms of culture, paradigm and healthcare context. For JAN’s worldwide readership, authors are expected to make clear the wider international relevance of their work and to demonstrate sensitivity to cultural considerations and differences.