Join Our Webinar for Insights and Strategies
As the demand for nursing professionals in the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) sector grows, so does the need to attract, support, and retain talented nurses. The IDD field offers unique opportunities and meaningful work that often differ significantly from roles in acute care or nursing homes. To address the essentials of nurse recruitment and retention, Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy is hosting a complimentary CE webinar titled “Nurse Recruitment and Retention in I/DD: Release the Tension” on December 12, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. This webinar, led by Deb Maloy, RN, CDDN, Director of Sales and Education at Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy, will provide 1.0 CE Nursing / QIDP credit and explore the benefits, challenges, and strategies for building a strong nursing team dedicated to the IDD community.
The Rewards and Challenges of IDD Nursing
Nurses working in IDD experience rewards and specific challenges. Unlike more traditional settings, IDD nursing often involves less bureaucracy, allowing nurses to create and implement individualized care plans with greater autonomy. This flexibility not only empowers nurses but also allows them to be stronger advocates, actively shaping the care of individuals and making impactful, long-term changes. Additionally, IDD nursing offers a flexible schedule, giving nurses a more adaptable work-life balance while allowing them to form long-term, meaningful relationships with their clients.
However, there are also challenges, such as the need for clear role expectations and adequate support in managing the complexities of IDD care. In the webinar, we will discuss how agencies can address these challenges to ensure a positive environment where nurses feel valued and supported.
Key Considerations for Recruiting Nurses in the IDD Field
Effective nurse recruitment begins with a clear and detailed job description. Candidates need to understand the expectations, including any training requirements, delegation responsibilities, and 24/7 on-call coverage. Agencies should also communicate the nature of the role as a local, community-focused position, which offers nurses a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the quality of life and well-being of individuals with IDD.
The reputation of an agency plays a significant role in attracting nursing talent. Nurses often seek environments where they feel they can make a meaningful difference, either by improving the quality of care or contributing to the agency’s mission. In addition to competitive compensation packages, providing benefits such as health coverage, PTO, retirement options, and mental health support is essential for fostering a supportive work environment that appeals to nursing candidates and helps to avoid burnout. The agency should also take experience into consideration, candidates will either have vast experience working in IDD or none at all.
Supporting Nurse Retention Through Recognition and Flexibility
Retention efforts must focus on creating an environment where nurses feel recognized and valued for their contributions. Recognizing their worth, respecting their opinions, and supporting their professional decisions are key to building a sense of engagement and loyalty. Involving nurses in policy and procedural development further enhances their commitment by allowing them to play a role in shaping the agency’s future.
Providing ample time for rest and recovery is also essential. Agencies should prioritize PTO and consider “RTO” (regular time off) to help nurses recharge. Flexibility in scheduling, including remote work options and the ability to adjust schedules based on individual needs, can further support job satisfaction. Finally, engaging nurses in continuous development opportunities and regularly revisiting agency policies with their input ensures that they remain invested in their role and the agency’s mission. Giving your nurses the empowerment to seek out resources for efficiency, like partnering with a specialized IDD pharmacy that sets nurses and DSPs up for success would be a great start!
Join Our Complimentary CE Webinar: Nurse Recruitment and Retention in I/DD
To explore these topics in-depth and gain actionable insights for improving nurse recruitment and retention, join Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy’s free educational webinar, “Nurse Recruitment and Retention in I/DD: Release the Tension,” on December 12, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. This webinar will be led by Deb Maloy, RN, CDDN, Director of Sales and Education at Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy, and will provide 1.0 CE Nursing / QIDP credit. This event is ideal for healthcare administrators, agency leaders, and professionals interested in creating a supportive environment for nurses in the IDD field.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry experts and connect with peers.