Learning Objective #1: identify the impact of musculoskeletal injuries on the retention of registered nurses over the age of 45.

Learning Objective #2: identify strategies for minimizing musculoskeletal injuries in an aging workforce.

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Abstract The nursing workforce is rapidly aging with nearly one-third of RNs in the workforce aged 50 years and older. Despite the implications of the aging of the nursing workforce, there is little empirical research focusing on older nurses and specifically on the retention of these experienced nurses in the workforce. A major reason nurses leave the workforce is the high incidence of work-related injuries. Further, back injuries have been identified as a main factor contributing to nurses’ early retirement. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of musculoskeletal injuries on nurses 45 years of age and older and identify strategies for retaining these expert nurses in the workforce. A cross-sectional descriptive field study employing both questionnaires and interviews was conducted with 303 registered nurses aged 45 and over, employed in a hospital setting. Cross-tabulations revealed significant associations between frequency of injuries reported and type of unit, shift worked, turning and lifting patients, pushing beds/stretchers/wheelchairs, and length of time in current position. The most frequently experienced injury was to the lower back (57%). Of the nurses who reported experiencing a lower back injury, half of them indicated the injury interfered at least somewhat in their ability to perform their job. In response to treatment sought the majority of older nurses relied on over-the-counter medications. The results of this study will be of use to individual nurses, as well as to health care managers who are interested in learning more about the impact of musculoskeletal injuries experienced by nurses aged 45 and older, and the retention of these experienced nurses in the workforce.