The 'realities' of part-time nursing: a grounded theory study

To develop a theory that explains the 'realities' of part-time nursing.

While little is known about the phenomenon of part-time nursing, increasing numbers of nurses work in part-time employment.

Grounded theory.

The problem that part-time nurses shared was an inability to achieve their personal optimal nursing potential. Motivators to work part-time, employment hours, specialty, individual and organizational factors formed contextual conditions that led to this problem. Part-time nurses responded to the challenges through a process of adaptation and adjustment.

Harnessing the full productive potential of part-time nurses requires support to limit the difficulties that they encounter. The developed theory provides a valuable guide to managerial action.

Nurse Managers need to consider the developed substantive theory when planning and managing nursing workforces.