Nurse’s Perception of the Public Image of Nursing of Society and Its Association with Their Quality of Working Life

Abstract

Abstract: Background and objective: The public image of nursing is a substantial nursing challenge, influencing different dimensions of this profession including the quality of nursing work life (QNWL). Accordingly, this study aimed to determine the nurses’ perception about their public image and its association with QNWL. Methods: This descriptive correlational study was conducted on 250 nurses working in hospitals affiliated to Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. A three-part questionnaire was used for collecting data including the demographic characteristics, Porter nursing image Scale, and Brooks QNWL Scale. Data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS ver. 13 Software. Results: The mean score for the public image of nursing and the QNWL were 123.7 41.4 and 145.5 26.9, respectively, which both were in the average range. According to the canonical correlation analysis, there was a statistically significant and positive correlation between the two sets of the study variables (r=0.4, p<0.001). Conclusion: Enhancement of the nurses’ perception about their public image improves their work life quality, vice versa, which indicates the need for some modifications in Iranian healthcare systems’ management strategies. Evidently, the nursing officials should take steps in conveying a positive public image of nursing using mass media and this way, improve the nurses’ work motivation and their quality of work life.