Enablers and barriers in the professional development of nurses employed full-time at university nursing studies in Croatia: a qualitative study

BackgroundMultiple studies have highlighted the challenges faced by nurse educators working in an academic setting. However, to date, no published research has explored this issue in the Croatian context. This study explored and described the enablers and barriers to the professional development of full-time nurses employed in university-level nursing education programs in Croatia.MethodsA qualitative study was conducted from February to March 2024. Participants were full-time nurse educators holding teaching positions at 12 university-level nursing programs across Croatia. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide and analyzed through reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsOf the 58 individuals who met the inclusion criteria, 52 (90%) nurse educators participated in the study. The sample comprised 10 men and 42 women, ranging in age from 28 to 64 years. Participants identified work overload, particularly the burden of administrative tasks and competing responsibilities, as the primary barrier to their professional development. Additional challenges included limited time and resources, difficulties in organising clinical practice and mentoring, and a perceived disconnect between academic and clinical settings. Despite these challenges, the majority of participants reported overall satisfaction with their academic careers, highlighting the intrinsic value of knowledge dissemination, student engagement, and professional growth. Institutional support was noted in the form of co-financed educational opportunities, mentorship, and involvement in decision-making processes.ConclusionThe findings of this study indicate that improvements in working conditions and employment policies are needed to enhance job satisfaction among nurses employed in university nursing programs in Croatia. Key areas for intervention include reducing administrative burdens, strengthening management and organizational structures, increasing institutional support, and promoting access to continuous professional education. These factors are essential to fostering the professional development of nurses within an academic setting.Clinical trial registrationNot applicable. This study was not a clinical trial.