Job satisfaction in psychiatric nursing

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Services Research
• Nursing Workforce Studies
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• European mental health services are transitioning from institutional to community-based care.
• The impact of these organizational changes on psychiatric nurse job satisfaction remains under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the job satisfaction levels of psychiatric nurses.
• To identify factors influencing job satisfaction within the context of evolving mental health services.

Main Methods:

• A survey of 800 qualified psychiatric nurses in a specific health board area was conducted in 2003.
• Methodological triangulation using questionnaires (Occupational Stress Indicator) and focus groups was employed.
• A response rate of 43% (346 nurses) was achieved.

Main Results:

• Work location emerged as the primary factor influencing job satisfaction.
• Other key factors included choice of work location, work routine, staff allocation, teamwork, and the working environment.
• Qualitative data from focus groups provided deeper insights into these influencing factors.

Conclusions:

• Work location and environmental factors are critical for psychiatric nurse job satisfaction.
• Facilitating staff choice in working environments is crucial for nurse recruitment and retention in mental health services.