The nature nursing quality of work life: an integrative review of literature

West J Nurs Res. 2011 Oct;33(6):786-804. doi: 10.1177/0193945910378855. Epub 2010 Aug 18.

Abstract

Studies that have examined the nursing quality of work life (QWL) have not been systematically reviewed in the recent years. Thus, the current study was aimed to identify the predictors of the nurses' QWL and determine the definitions of QWL for nurses. The authors used an integrative review of the literature and identified six themes as the major predictors of the nurses' QWL: leadership and management style/decision-making latitude, shift working, salary and fringe benefits, relationship with colleagues, demographic characteristics, and workload/job strain. Although different researchers had varied perspectives on the QWL in nursing, most viewed QWL as a subjective phenomenon that is influenced by personal feeling and perceptions. A closer review of definitions of QWL indicated that some authors considered QWL as an "outcome," whereas others saw it as a "process." Further research needs to be conducted to determine the relative importance of QWL predictors, and implementation programs to improve the QWL.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Communication
  • Decision Making
  • Humans
  • Interprofessional Relations
  • Leadership
  • Nurses / psychology*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Salaries and Fringe Benefits
  • Stress, Psychological
  • Work Schedule Tolerance
  • Workload