What makes them happy? Professional care-givers' job satisfaction

Nurses' job dissatisfaction can be seen as an early warning indicator of occupational change and (early) termination intentions. A better understanding of job satisfaction and its determinants can help to prevent nurses from leaving their profession.

We assessed the impact of nurses' perception of job characteristics on their overall job satisfaction in order to identify the most relevant factors. We also investigated the potential mechanisms through which the most relevant factor influences job satisfaction.

We used multiple regression analysis based on a standardized survey of about 800 registered nurses (in long-term care facilities) in both inpatient care and outpatient care in Germany as well as qualitative content analysis of about 50 semi-structured interviews with nurses.

We found that collaboration with the team and supervisor to be the most relevant factor associated with job satisfaction. A good team can create professional support and ideational support for professional caregivers and enhance their professional development and the quality of care.

Our results point to the importance of leadership training, team building methods and other measures for establishing and cultivating a pleasant working atmosphere with flexible shift handovers and team meetings.