Unveiling nurses' perspectives on decent work: A qualitative exploration.

Abstract

Aim: This study explores nurses' perspectives on the concept of "decent work" and the factors influencing their viewpoints.

Design: This qualitative study employed a conventional content analysis approach using face-to-face interviews.

Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 registered nurses at two tertiary hospitals in Hangzhou, China, from October to November 2023.

Findings: Decent work for nurses refers to their engagement in a profession within a secure, fair, and friendly practice environment where they could receive respect, support, reasonable compensation, social security, and opportunities for career development, all of which could enable nurses to recognize their intrinsic values and achieve a state of professional and personal fulfillment. Key factors that influence decent work for nurses include the work environment, societal perceptions, and individual characteristics.

Conclusions: The concept of decent work holds paramount importance for nurses, necessitating collaborative efforts at the individual, family, institutional, and societal levels to promote the professional dignity of nurses and enhance the quality of nursing care.

Implications for nursing and health policy: Policymakers should establish regional minimum wage standards for nurses, promote flexible scheduling, and support professional development through subsidized training programs. Additionally, national media campaigns and comprehensive mental health support can enhance the public image and resilience of nurses, respectively, improving their decent work perception.