Work satisfaction, stressors and support experienced by community health nurses

This study sought to describe the support, work-related stressors, job satisfaction, and burnout experienced by community health nurses (CHNs). Four standardized measures were administered to CHNs in Nova Scotia. One hundred and one CHNs completed the questionnaires. Spouse, family, friends and work associates were the key sources of support for CHNs. The three main sources of stress identified by participants were insufficient time for client care, poor work environment, and difficult clients; perceived lack of support from supervisors and heavy workload were additional sources of stress. The two primary sources of job satisfaction for these CHNs were enjoyment of work and provision of quality care. Strain and illness were the major dimensions of burnout. All five hypotheses were supported; for example, as support increased, burnout and illness decreased and job satisfaction increased. Programs and policies that provide support for Canadian CHNs are timely.