Perceptions of job satisfaction and the regulatory environment among nurse aides and charge nurses in long-term care

Objective: To explore perceptions about job satisfaction and the regulatory environment among certified nurse aides (CNAs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in selected nursing homes in West Texas. Background: As long-term care nurse leaders struggle with maintaining an adequate, well-trained workforce, clarifying factors that affect job satisfaction and turnover is essential. Studies have identified several factors that contribute to job dissatisfaction and turnover, but the extent to which the regulatory environment contributes is unknown. Methods: The study used a qualitative research design with one-on-one semi-structured interviews conducted with 38 participants employed as CNAs or LVNs in 1 of 5 nursing homes located in West Texas. Results: Participants acknowledged that regulations pervade their daily work and accept regulatory oversight as necessary for providing good care. However, participants expressed concern that the presence of the surveyors in the facility often created a tense, almost adversarial atmosphere. Other reasons for job dissatisfaction included excessive paperwork, ineffective communication, frequent deaths, combative and uncooperative residents, and inadequate staffing. Conclusions: Strategies are suggested to improve the survey process, address care-related stressors, promote positive communication techniques, reduce paperwork inefficiencies, and reduce staff shortages.