Exploring Work-Life Balance Among Nursing Faculty

Background and Purpose: With nursing faculty vacancy rates on the rise, identifying and mitigating causative factors is imperative. The purpose of this study was to examine nursing faculty perceptions of work-life balance and identify strategies used to decrease burnout. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was utilized. Items from the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) tool were combined with qualitative author-developed items and distributed to 65 nursing faculty. Descriptive statistics were used to determine exhaustion, disengagement, and burnout levels among participants. Qualitative items were analyzed for common themes. Results: A total of 24 respondents completed the survey. The OLBI results indicated 33% of participants had high-level disengagement, while 50% had high-level exhaustion. Higher exhaustion means for participants were associated with higher disengagement means, r = 0.78, p < .001. Qualitative thematic analysis revealed that setting boundaries, including turning work off and prioritization, helped in better balancing responsibilities, while lack of workplace support interfered with work-life balance. Those with the lowest OLBI scores reported feeling supported in their role and often set boundaries when work was performed. Faculty integrated strategies, including reaching out to peers and taking time for family and friends, to prevent burnout. Implications for Practice: Disengagement and exhaustion, both components of burnout, were identified in respondents. As faculty vacancy rates continue to increase, determining other variables impacting work-life balance is needed. Researching the effectiveness of interventions and preventative measures identified is necessary to support and retain future nursing faculty.