Work life–related loneliness among nurse managers and its effect on life satisfaction: Turkey's example

Aim To determine the effects of perceived workplace loneliness on life satisfaction among nurses working as managers. Background Nurses working as managers often encounter negative situations, and their consequences extend beyond their professional responsibilities to encompass nonprofessional domains, including life satisfaction. Methods This study enrolled 158 nurse managers (NMs) after gaining their consent. Data from the descriptive cross‐sectional study were obtained using the “Descriptive Information Form,” “Loneliness in Work Life Scale,” and “Life Satisfaction Scale.” The relationship between relevant scales was assessed using Pearson's correlation analysis and multiple linear regression. Findings A moderately strong, negative, and significant relationship was observed between work life–related loneliness and life satisfaction among NMs. Multiple regression analysis revealed that three independent variables—two LAWS subscales and the job satisfaction status—significantly affected NMs’ life satisfaction (adjusted R 2 = 0.39, p < 0.001). Conclusion Perceived loneliness and professional satisfaction are important predictors of life satisfaction among NMs. Thus, it is crucial to determine the factors that negatively affect the professional satisfaction and perceived loneliness of nurses working as managers and to implement psychosocial interventions in such cases. Implications for nursing and health policy This study demonstrates the significance of identifying problems in the professional lives of NMs, who are involved in planning nursing services and implementing interventions to address these problems.