The relationship between self-compassion, job satisfaction and quality of life of nurses working in neonatal intensive care units affiliated to Tabriz University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Abstract Introduction and Objective: Self-compassion is a psychological concept that refers to caring for and being kind to oneself in the face of difficulties or deficiencies. It leads to better logical responses and increased satisfaction in life. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-compassion and job satisfaction and quality of life among nurses working in neonatal intensive care units. Materials and Methods: A total of 114 nurses employed in neonatal intensive care units affiliated with Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in the year 1400 (2021-2022) were included in the study using a census method. In addition to demographic characteristics, the participants completed the following questionnaires: Self-Compassion Short Form (Neff), Quality of Life Questionnaire for Nurses (SF-36) and Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ). The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 31.7 ± 3.34 years, ranging from 25 to 53 years. Among the 114 nurses, 105 (92%) had a bachelor’s degree, 93 (81%) were married, 96 (84%) worked in rotating shifts, and 103 (99%) had more than one year of work experience. The average self-compassion score was 9.31±1.5, job satisfaction score was 2.53±6.11, and quality of life score was 5.88±4.8. A positive and significant correlation was observed between self-compassion and job satisfaction (r = 0.449, p < 0.001) as well as quality of life (r = 0.567, p < 0.001). Additionally, a correlation was found between quality of life and job satisfaction (r = 0.299, p < 0.001). Self-compassion and job satisfaction scores did not show significant associations with demographic variables, but quality of life was related to marital status and employment status. Conclusion: The study results indicate that self-compassion among nurses working in neonatal intensive care units is at a good level, while job satisfaction and quality of life are at a moderate level. Considering the positive and significant correlation of self-compassion with the other two factors, it can be predicted that increasing self-compassion may lead to higher job satisfaction and improved quality of life for nurses in neonatal intensive care units. Therefore, incorporating self-compassion training into educational and refresher courses for nurses in specialized neonatal care units is recommende.