Unraveling the Antecedents of Job Satisfaction and Turnover Intention Among Private Hospital Nurses in Nepal: A PLS-SEM Mediation Analysis of Work Environment, Salary, Job Enrichment, and Job Stress

Abstract

Background: Nurses play a critical role in delivering healthcare services, and their job satisfaction can influence their motivation, commitment, and intention to remain in an organization. However, challenging work environments, inadequate salaries, limited opportunities for career development, job stress, and difficulties in maintaining work-life balance may negatively affect nurses' job satisfaction and increase their intention to leave. Purpose: The purpose of this research is to study the factors influencing job satisfaction and turnover intention among nurses of private hospitals in Kathmandu valley. Design/methodology/approach: The research design utilized in this study is explanatory. A total of 400 nurses were questioned using a structured questionnaire as part of a purposive sampling study, and KOBO Toolbox was utilized to collect data. Both inferential and descriptive statistics were used to assess the data. Smart PLS software was utilized to investigate the associations between variables using SEM. Findings: Study reveals that work environment, salary, job enrichment, and job stress have significant relationship with job satisfaction. Job satisfaction mediates a role between these factors and turnover intention. Majority of respondents face the challenge of work-life balance, lack of career development opportunities, job security and low salary which can be solved by providing flexible working hours, sufficient salary, career development opportunities, paying attention to employee happiness, etc. Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that employees are more content when they work in a friendly and positive environment with opportunities for growth. Moreover, employment satisfaction promotes a safe working environment.