Multiple job holding and its influencing factors among Belgian nurses: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Multiple job holding (MJH), historically referred to as moonlighting, is increasingly recognized among healthcare workers, yet it remains underexplored among nurses. This study investigates the prevalence and motivations for MJH among nurses in Belgium. Using a cross-sectional survey, data were collected in 924 nurses between November 2022 and March 2023. The aim was to identify key influencing factors driving nurses to consider or engage in MJH, with motivations categorized into “push” and “pull” factors. Results show that 38.3 % of nurses hold multiple jobs, with financial necessity and job dissatisfaction (push factors) as the dominant drivers. Younger nurses, men, and those without children were more likely to engage in MJH. Pull factors, such as professional growth and job autonomy, also played a role but were deemed less important. Financial insecurity, particularly the inability to live comfortably on a single income, emerged as a strong predictor of MJH. Additionally, nurses with master's degrees were more likely to take on secondary jobs, possibly due to career development motivations. Despite the growing trend of MJH, the study highlights concerns about nurses working outside their primary profession during a nursing shortage. These findings suggest a need for policy interventions to address inadequate financial compensation and improve job satisfaction within nursing roles to reduce the reliance on secondary employment.