Exploring the Determinants Impacting Work–Life Balance for General Nurses in Diverse Healthcare Settings: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Work–life balance (WLB) is a crucial factor influencing the well-being and job satisfaction of healthcare professionals, particularly general nurses. Increasing job demands, shift work and inadequate remuneration contribute to WLB challenges, often leading to burnout, stress and nurse turnover. Understanding the factors impacting WLB can guide improvements in workplace policies and healthcare outcomes.

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the WLB of general nurses in the Czech Republic and examine the influence of demographic and professional factors, such as length of experience, workplace type, educational attainment and family structure, on WLB.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to September 2024, involving 200 general nurses. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and the Work–Family Conflict Scale, which measures work-to-family and family-to-work conflict on a 4-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses, including chi-squared and Spearman correlation tests, were used to assess the relationships between WLB and selected variables.

Results: The findings revealed moderate levels of work–family conflict, with higher scores for work negatively impacting family life compared to the reverse. Significant correlations were found between WLB and factors such as workplace type and educational attainment, with nurses in intensive care units and those with secondary education reporting higher conflict. Surprisingly, no significant relationship was observed between WLB and the number of children or shift work. Older nurses and those with longer professional experience reported lower levels of work–family conflict.

Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of addressing workplace factors, such as workload and professional development opportunities, to improve WLB among general nurses. Promoting WLB can reduce stress and burnout while enhancing job satisfaction and care quality. Further research is needed to explore individual needs and the potential for personalised scheduling in nursing practice.