A Study of Professional Quality of Life and Environmental Factors among Pediatric Registered Nurses

Abstract

Aim. This research study aims to investigate the professional quality of life (ProQOL) among pediatric registered nurses. Background. Professional quality of life encapsulates two fundamental components, namely, compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue, which comprises burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used in this study, which included 217 pediatric registered nurses. Self-administered questionnaires compiled sociodemographic and occupational characteristics before measuring Professional quality of life (Version 5) items were used to collect data. Results. Most respondents were 30 to 35 years of age (65%), female (99%), and hold a diploma certificate (63%). The ProQOL scores for compassion satisfaction was 35.9 (SD = 9.7), compassion fatigue (burnout) was 21.8 (SD = 9.64), and compassion fatigue (secondary traumatic stress) was 23.5 (SD = 9.7). A significant mean difference ( p < 0.001 ) were found in the ProQOL level based on environmental factors related to pediatrics and family. Conclusion. The results of this study show a moderate compassion satisfaction level, a low burnout level, and a moderate secondary traumatic stress level among pediatric registered nurses. Different related environmental factors that can impact the professional quality of life of pediatric registered nurses. Implications for Nursing Management. Pediatric nurses will benefit from a supportive work environment, which fosters collaboration and respect among nurses and their pediatric patients’ families to improve the health outcomes of pediatric patients. Hospitals should offer specialized training programs that address the unique needs of pediatric nursing, encompassing areas such as child development, communication techniques with children, and age-specific healthcare interventions. This will equip nurses with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide optimal care for pediatric patients. Also, the following support systems, such as regular debriefing sessions and counseling services, are established to help nurses cope with the emotional challenges they may encounter in their work and to foster a collaborative work environment that encourages effective teamwork among nurses and promotes positive relationships between nurses and the families of pediatric patients. This can be achieved by implementing interdisciplinary team approaches, regular team meetings, and open communication channels. In addition, to ensure that pediatric nurses have access to the necessary resources, such as up-to-date medical literature, technological tools, and equipment, to provide the best care possible. Adequate staffing levels should also be maintained to prevent excessive workloads, which can contribute to burnout and decreased job satisfaction.