Nurses' perceptions of co-worker support in the workplace: Qualitative research

Although the psychological factors of the work environment affect the quality of employees' performance more than physical factors, they have not been broadly explained yet. This study is conducted to explore nurses' perceptions of the co-worker support as psychological resource in the workplace.

The present study is a qualitative research. Fourteen staff nurses who were working in hospitals affiliated to the Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Iran were selected based on purposeful sampling and interviewed using un-structured in-depth interviews. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using conventional content analysis approach through constant comparative method.

Data analysis revealed four major themes with 11 sub themes. The four major themes include 'emotional support', 'effective working relationship and collaboration', 'suitable social relationships', and 'guidance and teaching'.

The results showed that, nurses had a positive perception of their colleagues' support in the workplace. Co-worker Support is a multidimensional phenomenon and is influenced by various factors. Perceiving support from the colleague and having a sense of support can promote the quality of care and increase dealing with stressful situations in nursing. Therefore, communication and flexibility skills should be taught to both staff and managers in this regard.