Aim This study aims to examine, through the lens of the Job Demands‐Resources model, the influence of caring for COVID‐19 patients on nurse's perception of chronic fatigue, quality of care, satisfaction at work and intention to leave their organisation and the profession. Background Studies have examined how fear of COVID‐19 contributes to the mental, physical and work adjustment among nurses. To date, few studies have been conducted examining how caring for patients with COVID‐19 contributes to work outcomes among nurses. Methods This is a cross‐sectional survey involving 1705 frontline nurses and licensed practical nurses in Quebec, Canada. From these, 782 reported caring for COVID‐19 patients. Results High chronic fatigue, poor quality of care, lower work satisfaction and higher intention to leave their organisation were found for nurses caring for COVID‐19 patients. Poorly prepared and overwhelmed nurses showed higher turnover intention than those well prepared and in control. Conclusions There is an urgent need to provide support to nurses during the pandemic, with a long‐term strategy to increase their retention. Implications for Nursing Management Nurse administrators play an important role in supporting their nurses during a pandemic in the form of education, training and policy development to positively impact quality of care and retention.

: This instrument can help nurse leaders increase the effective use of RN time in carrying out the full scope of their professional practice.