Original Research: Exploring Nurses' Use of Humor in the Workplace: A Thematic Analysis

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Psychology

Background:

• The nursing work environment is frequently stressful, contributing to burnout.
• Humor may be a valuable coping mechanism for nurses.
• Limited research exists on how nurses utilize humor professionally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the use and perception of humor among nurses in their professional settings.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving interviews with Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs), and advanced practice RNs in the U.S.
• Interviews were conducted via Zoom and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Sixteen nurses discussed their use of humor, identifying themes of entertainment, influencing others, and well-being.
• Humor was used with self, patients, families, and colleagues, promoting emotional regulation and relationship building.
• Nurses expressed concerns about the appropriateness of humor in certain situations.

Conclusions:

• Workplace humor offers significant benefits for nurses, including tension relief and enhanced work environments.
• Humor can strengthen interpersonal bonds and improve the overall nursing experience.
• Skillful and sensitive application of humor is crucial, but its advantages generally surpass potential drawbacks.