Most CNAs who quit do so within the first ninety days, and most cite being thrown onto the floor unsupported rather than pay.
Structured buddy assignments for the first six shifts, a scheduled thirty-day check-in and predictable schedules beat sign-on bonuses on cost per retained employee.
Track turnover by unit and by shift. A building-wide number hides the one manager who is generating half of it.
Recognition works when it is specific and public. Generic appreciation weeks do not move retention.