Professional autonomy in nursing: An integrative review

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Healthcare Management
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Professional autonomy in nursing is linked to increased work meaningfulness.
• It encompasses participation in decision-making and influencing work practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current knowledge on professional autonomy in nursing.
• To identify key elements and themes associated with nurses' professional autonomy.

Main Methods:

• An integrative review of 27 studies (2000-2019) from four databases.
• Systematic quality appraisal using critical tools and PRISMA guidelines.
• Inductive content analysis to synthesize findings.

Main Results:

• Key elements include independence in decision-making and competence utilization.
• Associated themes are shared leadership, professional skills, collaboration, and work environment.
• Professional autonomy contributes to experienced meaningfulness of work.

Conclusions:

• Understanding professional autonomy's multidimensional nature is vital for attractive work environments.
• Enabling nurse participation in decision-making and shared leadership aids recruitment and retention.
• Findings support nursing practice and leaders in fostering professional autonomy.