Zangerle offers advice on retaining Gen Z nurses

AONL CEO Claire Zangerle, DNP, RN, said health systems can improve Gen Z nurse retention by offering pathways for them to pursue internal opportunities based on their interests after they pass the two-year mark. An AONL and Laudio report found many Gen Z nurses quit after 24 to 30 months when their residency program or requirement to stay as part of sign-on bonus ends. Gen Z nurses prioritize work-life balance, so offering flexible scheduling is important, she said. Younger nurses with accessible supervisors are more likely to stay, so hospital leadership should ensure these leaders oversee a manageable number of nurses. Zangerle also serves as American Hospital Association CNE. (Chief Healthcare Executive article, 5/8/26)