A four-year analysis of US and Canadian academic nurse administrators' job satisfaction and intent to stay.

Background: A crisis in vacancies for academic nurse leaders across North American has been recognized. Their role has become increasingly multifaceted, facing rapidly changing responsibilities that must evolve with health care, higher education and leadership.

Purpose: This retrospective study was conducted to investigate relationships among relevant variables included in the COACHE Faculty Job Satisfaction survey.

Methods: The sample included survey responses from academic nursing administrators (n = 174). Analysis of variance and multiple linear regression modeling were utilized.

Discussion: Clarity in the tenure process (F (6, 92) = 2.92, p = .001), collaboration (p =.000) as well as academic leadership decisions of the dean or division chair (p = .006), and work-life balance (p =.005) were found to be significant.

Conclusions: Understanding the factors important to administrators will assist in innovative approaches to attract and retain qualified leaders.