Strategies to Empower Diploma Nurses in Eastern Health Cluster-Saudi Arabia

Abstract

In 1954, the Ministry of Health (MOH) established nursing as a profession in Saudi Arabia. Almost three quarters of the nursing workforce in Ministry of Health hospitals are diploma nurses who need to be retained by providing opportunities for both professional development and career progression. This research aims to identify empowerment strategies that may be beneficial in maximising the potential of diploma nurses in this population. Methodology: The study used a qualitative and quantitative design with a grounded theory approach to explore diploma nurses’ views and interpretations of their role and performance. It was conducted in three Health Network facilities within the Eastern Health Cluster (EHC) over a nine months period from June 2022 until the end of December 2022. A purposive sampling technique was used. A total of 15 diploma nurses and 3 Nurse Directors representing three health networks were enrolled in the project, on a voluntary basis. A research questionnaire and focus group interviews were used for data collection after obtaining ethical approval from King Fahad Specialist Hospital Institutional Review Board. Analysis: A descriptive analysis was undertaken to highlight the demographic characteristics. Data was then completed by comparing data entered on the questionnaire in order to provide a better understanding about diploma nurses views and how to enhance their performance. Data were conceptualized through initial coding using a method of constant comparison (conceptual or open coding). Coded data was then compared against other data to create categories before finally emerging into core categories (thematic or axial coding) to support the purpose of the study in enhancing performance. Results: The results were presented as a model that showed three main strategies to empower diploma nurses. They were: perception of diploma nurses’ performance, area for improvement, and education enhancement. Recommendations: Appreciation and recognition are important factors that will empower diploma nurses. Additionally, providing part time bridging programs through universities and opportunities for enrollment in transformation programs (Makken Programs) may also empower diploma nurses by enhancing their level of education. Limitations: small sample size, not including primary healthcare diploma nurses in this research, lack of triangulation methodology - individual interviews besides the focus group and questionnaire could enhance the validity and strength of the study. Furthermore, as the study was conducted in EHC it may not be generalizable. Conclusion: Further studies are needed to identify empowerment strategies and measure their effectiveness in this population.