Why Are Thai Nurses Having High Quality of Life but Low Happiness?

Abstract

This study explored the meaning of quality of life, happiness and level of quality of life and happiness. A combined research of quantitative and qualitative methods was employed during May- October 2011. For the qualitative part, purposive sampling was used to gather key informants (registered nurses) working in Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Chon Buri, Bangkok, and Songkhla provinces to participate in the study. Data saturation was reached at 518 nurses. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were used for data collection. Content analysis and thematic analysis were employed. Data, investigator and theoretical triangulation were used to ensure rigor and credibility of the study. For the quantitative part (descriptive study), cluster sampling was used to recruit registered nurses all over Thailand. Two standard questionnaires WHO-BREF-THAI and Thai Happiness Indicators 15 or THI-15, were used for data collection. A total of 3,219 completed questionnaires returned for analysis (85% response rate). Demographic data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and 95% CI.

Findings from the qualitative part indicated that nurses who participated in this study perceived their quality of life to be related to their jobs. Quality of life and happiness were perceived in the same way. Happiness at work led to quality of life. Results of the survey show that the majority of nurses reported their quality of life were good and fairs. The happiness scores of 65 percent of nurses were lower than those of general population. Conflicts between quality of life and happiness scores were from questions of the questionnaires.

Findings of the study indicate that to minimize nurse shortage, there is a need to raise happiness and intentions to stay at both practice and organizational levels.