Job satisfaction among nurses and physicians in an Army hospital: A content analysis.

Background: Lower job satisfaction is associated with increased turnover. Although factors that contribute to job satisfaction are well documented, less is known about job satisfaction among health care professionals in military hospitals.

Purpose: To explore areas of most and least satisfaction with work among civilian and military nurses and physicians in an Army hospital.

Methods: Civilian and military nurses and physicians (n = 285) completed two-open ended job satisfaction questions. We used content analysis to explore categories and themes. Data were sorted by professional identity (civilian, military) and professional role (nurse, physician).

Findings: Regardless of professional identity or role, respondents experienced the most satisfaction with patient care and co-worker relationships. Military respondents experienced the least satisfaction with staffing inadequacies and work schedule conflicts. Civilians reported leadership attributes and co-worker conflicts contributed to the least satisfying aspects of work.

Discussion: Hospital leaders should implement relational work practices and develop policies that enhance job satisfaction.