Queensland public sector nurse executives: job satisfaction and career opportunities

Abstract

During the past decade, economic and political forces have caused radical transformations in health caresystems resulting in changed circumstances within which nursing executives must function. This paper providesan understanding of nursing executives' roles and responsibilities and the impact changes in the health industryhave had on their careers.One hundred and forty-seven (52%) of the 281 nursing executives employed in the Queensland Public HealthSector completed a postal self-administered survey. The findings of this study demonstrate their role hasexpanded to include not only nursing administration, but also responsibility for financial, human resources,strategic and resource management, staff development and quality improvement. The impact of these rolechanges has affected the health and well-being of nursing executives, with nearly half reporting increased stress,frustration and irritation. Their workload has increased and some reported deterioration in their health,specifically, exhaustion, fatigue and insomnia. Respondents reported they now have less time to spend withfamilies and friends, which has had a negative impact on family relationships. Overall, nursing executives weresatisfied with their current position, the work itself and their relationships with their co-workers, but dissatisfiedwith organisational aspects, especially the quality of mentorship and opportunities for promotion.