The Relationship Between Nurse Managers’ Work Environment and Job Satisfaction

Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between nurse managers’ work environment and their level of job satisfaction. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 35 nurse managers working at a university hospital. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Nurse Manager Practice Environment Scale (NMPES), and the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ). Differences between socio-demographic and professional variables and job satisfaction were analyzed using the t-test and ANOVA. Correlations between the scales were examined using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) and p-values. Results: A significant and positive relationship was found between job satisfaction and the work environment (r=0.457, p<0.01). The subdimensions of “relationships with staff” (r=0.526) and “patient safety” (r=0.506) showed the strongest correlations with job satisfaction (both p<0.01). No significant relationship was found between job satisfaction and the subdimensions of financial resources or relationships with physicians. Additionally, adaptation to the managerial role, satisfaction with the unit worked in, and adequacy of nurse staffing were significantly associated with job satisfaction, whereas years of work experience, type of unit, physical environment, and satisfaction with communication were not significant. Conclusion: Enhancing the quality of the work environment, particularly in terms of team relationships and patient safety, significantly increases nurse managers’ job satisfaction. Furthermore, individual role adaptation appears to be a critical factor for professional satisfaction. Recommendations include organizational support, leadership development, and resource improvement programs.