A Descriptive Study to Identify the Factors Leading to Brain Drain Among Nurses Working in a Selected Private Hospital at Kunnumkulam, Thrissur District

Abstract

Introduction: Brain drain, also known as human capital flight, refers to the emigration of skilled and talented individuals to foreign nations or regions. This situation arises when people who pursue education abroad opt not to return to their home country but instead choose to establish themselves there. Additionally, individuals who study in their local area may move to foreign countries in search of increased income and improved prospects. Kerala has a historical practice of its residents relocating to other countries and regions, as well as different parts of India, in search of employment opportunities. Objective: (1) To find out the factors leading to brain drain among nurses working in a selected private hospital of Kerala. (2) To find out the remedial measures from nurses view to prevent brain drain. Methodology: Descriptive study was conducted at a selected private hospital of Kunnumkulam in the month of April 2021. Purposive sampling technique was used. Sample size: 50. The data collected by structured questionnaire which contain demographic variable and factors leading to brain drain. Result: Maximum nurses (82%) want to migrate to other countries. Among samples 48% want to go to Australia, 20% to USA, 16% to U.K12% to Ireland and only 4% to Middle East. Low income, lack of career opportunities, poor working environment and unsatisfactory living condition were main push and pull factors leading to brain drain among nurses. Conclusion: Maximum (82%) nurses working in private hospitals would like to migrate to other countries. Among nurses 98% expressed that hike in salary and respect to nursing job can reduce the brain drain, where 94% nurses were adding a statement that permission to study and work situation in India can bring change. This will help to convert brain drain to brain gain.