Proposing a Model for Nurses' Quality of Work Life: A Grounded Theory Approach

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a model for the quality of work life (QWL) of nurses using a grounded theory approach. Methodology: The study employed a qualitative research method with a grounded theory design. The research sample included 24 nurses from treatment-educational hospitals in Mashhad, selected using snowball sampling until data saturation. Data were collected through in-depth, unstructured interviews and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding. Findings: The study identified key causal conditions influencing QWL, including the provision of welfare services, participation, career advancement, improvement of environmental conditions, fostering a favorable culture, and organizational justice. Strategic factors such as fair treatment, efficient incentive systems, utilization of competencies, and valuing were also significant. The outcomes of improved QWL were categorized into job satisfaction, productivity, multipurpose use of space, and organizational commitment. Conclusion: The proposed model suggests that improving both causal and strategic factors can enhance the quality of work life for nurses, leading to greater job satisfaction, increased productivity, and stronger organizational commitment.