Satisfaction with life of oncology nurses in Poland

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this project was to analyse the level of satisfaction with life amongst Polish oncology nurses compared to their system of values.

Background: There are a large number of scholarly reports on job satisfaction and occupational burnout among oncologic nurses, and hardly any impact on their level of life satisfaction.

Introduction: Satisfaction with life, positive feelings and lack of negative feelings are the three important elements of subjective well-being.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey study design was used. One hundred and forty registered nurses working at oncology centres in Poland were surveyed during the 21st Annual Polish Oncology Nursing Conference. The study used a diagnostic survey method utilizing the Satisfaction With Life Scale, the List of Personal Values and an original survey questionnaire for collecting socio-demographic data.

Results: There was significant relationship between the level of satisfaction with life in oncology nurses and their age, work seniority, the working system and family life.

Discussion: Satisfaction with life and work is interconnected, and oncology nursing is characterized by significant physical and mental strain. The level of satisfaction depends on many variables, such as preferred system of values, work organization, age and work seniority.

Conclusions: Age and years of work experience affect oncology nurses' satisfaction with life. Working on a shift system and having a second job lower their satisfaction with life. Nurses who identify happiness symbols in the category of happy family life present a higher level of satisfaction with life.

Implications for nursing policy and practice: The low level of satisfaction with life among Polish oncology nurses is an important factor in the contemporary threats in nursing, and commitment to the improvement of the quality of life in this professional group should become a priority of shaping the image of the profession.

Keywords: Job Satisfaction; Nursing; Oncology Nurses; Quality of Life; Satisfaction with Life; Stress; Well-being.