Assessment of Challenges Faced by Nurses Performing Clinical Duties While Pursuing Higher Education in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Nurses who pursue higher education while also performing clinical duties frequently confront considerable physical, emotional, academic, and organizational hurdles. Nurses participating in postgraduate nursing programs in Pakistan's tertiary care hospitals face added stress due to growing workloads, staff shortages, and rigorous educational requirements. Improving nurses' well-being, academic performance, and patient care quality requires an understanding of these experiences. to investigate the difficulties experienced by nurses at Pakistani tertiary care hospitals who are pursuing higher education while doing out clinical tasks.

Methods: A qualitative phenomenological study design was employed to investigate the lived experiences of nurses participating in Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs while simultaneously engaging in clinical practice. A purposive sampling method was employed to enlist 14 individuals from tertiary care hospitals associated with the university. Information was gathered via semi-structured, detailed interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed exactly, and examined through Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis method

Results: The analysis revealed four primary themes: challenges in workload and time management, psychological and emotional stress, insufficient institutional and organizational support, and coping strategies related to professional development. Participants indicated that long working hours, inadequate staffing, academic stress, emotional fatigue, work-life imbalance, and financial strain were significant challenges. Restricted workplace flexibility and inflexible academic timetables amplified stress levels. In spite of these challenges, nurses showed resilience by utilizing time management, social support, spirituality, and a strong drive for professionalism.

Conclusion: Nurses advancing their education while handling clinical responsibilities face various obstacles that impact their health and academic success. Supportive policies within institutions, adaptable scheduling, and organizational assistance are crucial for advancing nurses' education and enhancing healthcare quality in Pakistan.