Preventing Nurses’ Turnover: The Role of Transformational Leadership – An Integrative Review

Authors

  • António Carlos Vilas Boas Serviço de Urgência, ULS Barcelos Esposende, Barcelos, Portugal Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0779-8807
  • Filipa Sendim Serviço de Medicina Intensiva, ULS Braga, Braga, Portugal Author
  • Francisco Costa Serviço de Urgência, ULS Barcelos Esposende, Barcelos, Portugal Author
  • Vitor Rocha Serviço de Urgência, ULS Barcelos Esposende, Barcelos, Portugal Author
  • Catarina Alves ISAVE - Instituto Superior de Saúde, Amares, Portugal Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71399/2j6k4j86

Keywords:

transformational leadership, nursing, turnover intention, organizational commitment, health management

Abstract

Introduction: Nurse shortages and high turnover rates represent major challenges to the sustainability of healthcare systems. Leadership has been identified as a key organizational factor in nurse retention, with transformational leadership associated with positive professional outcomes.              
Objectives: To analyze the role of transformational leadership in preventing nurses’ turnover and reducing turnover intention.             
Material and Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Searches were performed in PubMed and Scopus, including studies published between 2019 and 2024. Study selection was supported by the Rayyan software. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools and AMSTAR 2.             
Results: Seven studies were included. The findings indicate a consistent association between transformational leadership and lower turnover intention, often mediated by organizational commitment, job satisfaction, perceived organizational support, and reduced occupational stress.         
Conclusions: Transformational leadership plays a relevant role in preventing nurses’ turnover, particularly when integrated into broader organizational policies aimed at improving working conditions and professional recognition

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Published

16-03-2026

How to Cite

Preventing Nurses’ Turnover: The Role of Transformational Leadership – An Integrative Review. (2026). TER ISAVE, 5(1). https://doi.org/10.71399/2j6k4j86