The occupational well-being of nurse educators, its related challenges, stressors and their reduction in work life...

Nurse educators play an essential role in shaping future nursing competencies and healthcare quality. However, the occupational demands of their roles often result in high levels of stress and burnout, affecting their well-being, job satisfaction, and retention.

This systematic mixed-methods review aimed to explore nurse educators' occupational well-being, identify associated challenges and stressors, and evaluate strategies to enhance their professional quality of life and retention.

A systematic mixed-methods review was conducted, integrating quantitative and qualitative evidence in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.

Data were collected from six databases: CINAHL, PubMed, ERIC, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. Studies from 2014 onwards examining nurse educators' occupational well-being were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT), with a convergent integrated approach for data analysis.

Of the 850 records retrieved, 14 studies met the inclusion and quality criteria. Key findings highlighted factors contributing to occupational stress and burnout, including workload pressures, dual responsibilities (teaching and clinical practice), emotional labour, and insufficient institutional support. Effective strategies identified for enhancing occupational well-being encompassed mindfulness and resilience training, improved workplace engagement, supportive leadership, and a positive work culture.

Addressing nurse educators' occupational well-being is critical for sustaining a competent and stable nursing education workforce. Implementing targeted interventions to manage workloads, foster resilience, and enhance institutional support can significantly reduce burnout, increase job satisfaction, and improve retention rates among nurse educators.