The meanings of work to nursing professionals: a multi-method study

Abstract

The original purpose of this study was to conduct an exploratory analysis of the meaning of work to nursing professionals, comparing meanings by hierarchical level (non-degree and college-degreed levels) and by characteristics of the work environment. We applied a structured questionnaire containing scales for the meaning of work, affective commitment, and work stress. Results were treated with descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, correlation analysis, and mean comparison, and confirmed that hierarchical level and work environment define differences in the perception of work meaning and related constructs. Since our field work demanded long hours of permanence in hospitals, the study was enriched with observations and conversations. This combination of methods allowed expanding the knowledge about the factors that elicit experiencing the meaning of work in nursing. Meaning can emerge from factors such as increase in employability, social distinction, work-family harmonization, and the nature of the relationship with managers and leaders. Loss of meaning can cause a drop in productivity and be associated with resistance behaviors or even retaliatory behaviors in the form of absenteeism and changing jobs.