Nurses' Experiences of Workplace Flourishing in Healthcare: A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

To describe nurses' experiences of workplace flourishing in healthcare. A qualitative descriptive design using content analysis. Semi-structured remote individual interviews were conducted with 16 nurses between January and April 2023 in a private occupational healthcare organization in Finland. The data were analyzed using a deductive-inductive content analysis approach informed by the Flourishing at Work framework, which addresses the emotional, psychological, and social dimensions of workplace flourishing. Emotional well-being included experiencing mixed work-related emotions and energizing work performance. Psychological well-being included fostering employee engagement, supporting professional growth, developing professional self-awareness, recognizing the broader significance of work, and enhancing personal well-being at work. Social well-being included building an inclusive workplace environment, guiding actions through core values, fostering communality in the workplace, promoting mutual respect in the workplace, and experiencing human-centered leadership. A positive work community was a central driver of all WF dimensions, highlighting its social aspect. Human-centered leadership, characterized by coaching, empowerment, and interpersonal support, was essential for fostering WF. Nurses' WF was further shaped by personal values, meaningful work, and growth opportunities. Influence over one's work and organizational support for work-life balance also contributed significantly, underscoring the need to embed these elements in organizational practices. Findings highlight the need for human-centered leadership and supportive work communities to enhance nurse retention and well-being. Nurse supervisors play a key role in recognizing individual needs and supporting holistic well-being of nurses. The reporting is based on the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ).