Association between Professional Characteristics of Nurses and Nursing Autonomy in Iraq

Abstract

Background: Professional autonomy is important for nurses to make wise decisions based on sound clinical judgment in the practice setting(s). This will be reflected not only on patient’s best interest, but also contribute positively in creating safe workplaces for nurses, by minimizing job stress, depression and burnout. Also, it may increase job satisfaction and retention of staff.

Aims of the study: To determine relationship between nursing autonomy and some selected professional characteristic in Iraq.

Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive purposive study was conducted through the period of December 17th, 2020 to March 13th, 2021. The study sample type was purposive (non-probability), which was composed of (482) nurses who were working in critical care units, emergency and Medical-Surgical units.

Results: The study findings shows that majority of study participant's age group at a level (26-31 years) were (38.4%). (57.1%) were males. Furthermore, most of them (59.5%) were holding Bachelor's degree. The study findings shows a significant statistical association between years of experience in recent unit (p=0.003), developing professional experience (p=0.009), source of knowledge development (p=0.016) and participation in training sessions (p=0.021) and professional autonomy.

Conclusion: Findings of the study shows the association between professional characteristics and nursing autonomy. This reflects that the variable of professional autonomy in clinical decision-making is a concept with multiple faces, and its path cannot be determined by a single factor. Rather, it is a product of the interaction of multiple factors, including subjective, professional and institutional factors.

Recommendations: Strong united nursing groups and professional associations are also required to drive forward in self-government of nursing. Of equal importance, it is essential that the field of nursing work is fully described and clarified based on authenticated job description provided that it is activated with the guarantee of appropriate legal legislation. Provide training session and program in professional autonomy for nurses. Finally, further research must be performed in nursing autonomy due to lack of such studies especially in Iraq