Quality Of Working Life of Nurses in Slovenia: Challenges and Opportunities of Digital and Sustainable Healthcare and Education

Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Advanced Research in Education, Teaching and Learning

Year: 2024

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Quality Of Working Life of Nurses in Slovenia: Challenges and Opportunities of Digital and Sustainable Healthcare and Education

Sabina Ličen, Mirko Prosen

 

ABSTRACT:

This study examines the quality of work among nurses in Slovenian hospitals and its impact on sustainable healthcare, with a focus on education and training in the midst of digital transformation and demographic change. Using the Brooks’ Quality of Nursing Work life Survey, data was collected from 376 registered nurses in secondary and tertiary healthcare settings. The results reveal significant challenges, including high workload, insufficient time to complete tasks and inadequate support from unlicensed assistive personnel. Nurses struggle to balance work and family, with rotating schedules negatively impacting their personal lives. Although 78% of nurses believe they are providing good care to patients, only 47% feel they have enough time to perform their duties well. In addition, 67% report a high workload and 59% feel that there are too few nurses on their wards. The study highlights the need for improved education and training programmes that incorporate digital tools to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of nursing practise. By addressing these educational needs and implementing supportive policies, healthcare systems can create a more sustainable and supportive work environment for nurses. This study provides valuable insights for educators, policy makers and healthcare administrators aiming to improve the working conditions of nurses.

keywords: digital transformation; nursing education; policy; Slovenia; sustainable healthcare