Nurses’ and nurse leaders’ perspectives on a health-promoting work environment: a meta-ethnographic study

Purpose The purpose of this meta-ethnography is to integrate and synthesize nurses’ and nurse leaders’ perspectives on a health-promoting work environment to enhance understanding of its essential aspects. Methods A meta-ethnographic approach developed by Noblit and Hare was conducted. Findings Line...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Diako Morvati, Rita Solbakken, Jonas Vaag, Yvonne Hilli
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2025-12-01
Series:International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health & Well-Being
Subjects:
Online Access:http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17482631.2025.2460255
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Purpose The purpose of this meta-ethnography is to integrate and synthesize nurses’ and nurse leaders’ perspectives on a health-promoting work environment to enhance understanding of its essential aspects. Methods A meta-ethnographic approach developed by Noblit and Hare was conducted. Findings Line of argument synthesis led to the development of an overarching tree metaphor: “cultivating a flourishing environmental tree rooted in values, held stable by leadership, and nurtured by safe working conditions.” This metaphor illustrates that a health-promoting work environment is imbued with three interdependent aspects: 1) core values as the roots of the tree, including respect, recognition, community, and engagement 2) value-conscious leadership as the trunk of the tree, meaning a leader who is conscious of their power position and responsibilities and 3) safe working conditions as fertile soil for the tree, comprising the physical and administrative dimensions of the work environment. Conclusions Collaboration between nurses and leaders is crucial for cultivating a health-promoting work environment. However, nurse leaders, due to their influential positions, have the responsibility to facilitate this environment. Consequently, leaders need to receive adequate resources and support from their superiors to foster an environment that enhances nurses’ health and job satisfaction.
ISSN:1748-2623
1748-2631