Nurses' view of their work environment, health and safety: A qualitative study

Aim This study aims to determine the nurses' view of the work environment on nurses' health and safety. Background The creation of positive work environments has become one of the key determining factors to improve nurse outcomes. Methods The research, a qualitative descriptive design, was conducted between January and October 2017 with a total of 17 nurses. Nurses were selected for the study using the purposive sampling method, and in-depth interviews were carried out with these nurses under the guidance of a semi-structured interview form. Thematic analysis was conducted to analyse the interviews. Results In line with the views of nurses, two main themes as "physical environment regulations" and "administrative arrangements" and six sub-themes (room structures and plans, hygiene conditions, lack of materials, occupational precautions, the attitude of the managers, team collaboration and communication) were determined as the nurses' health and safety issues on their work environment. Conclusions Personal, administrative and institutional improvements are needed, especially for the prevention of work accidents and injuries. Implications for Nursing Management The study results will serve to guide legislators and upper-middle-sub-level managers in developing interventions to create supportive work environments for the health and safety of nurses.