Factors Affecting the Work Satisfaction of Nurses Employed in Government Hospitals: Basis for Enhanced Work-Life Balance

This study examined the factors affecting work satisfaction among nurses in selected government hospitals in Northern Palawan and served as the basis for an enhanced work-life balance program. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from 112 nurses through a researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, Chi-square, and ANOVA. Most respondents were young, female, single, bachelor’s degree holders, permanently employed, working 8-hour shifts, and had one to two years of experience. Findings showed that nurses were generally dissatisfied with compensation, benefits, workload, staffing, work environment, and leadership. They reported slight satisfaction with interpersonal relationships and teamwork, and moderate satisfaction with professional growth and recognition. Overall, job satisfaction was rated as slight. Significant relationships were found between work satisfaction and variables such as age, civil status, employment status, years of experience, position, shift, department, patient load, and salary. However, sex and educational attainment showed no significant relationship. The study concluded that despite nurses’ commitment to their profession, issues like low compensation, heavy workload, inadequate staffing, and limited career advancement reduce satisfaction. To address these concerns, an enhanced work-life balance program was proposed, focusing on stress management, flexible scheduling, wellness promotion, professional development, leadership support, and employee recognition to improve satisfaction, retention, and well-being.