The Labor Force Re-entry Decision of Registered Nurses

Abstract

Previous research from CPS data suggests a significant withdrawal rate of RNs from the labor market on an annual basis. Using data from the 1988 National Sample Survey of Registered Nunes, a probit model is specified to estimate economic influences on the labor force ro-entry decisions of RNs who have previously quit their jobs. Evaluating the estimated probit function for different sets of RN characteristics yields probability estimates of labor force re-entry. The results estimate a fairly large return flow of RNs to the labor force. The wage rate, other family income, and marital status have a significant influence on the re-entry decision. (Ill, 122, J44)