Sjuksköterskors upplevelser av arbetstidsförkortning

Sammanfattning: In order to reduce risk for burnout, discussions about reducing working hours (RWH) have taken place, as well a need for it has been acknowledged. This study focuses on the phenomena of RWH within emergency clinics. Consequently 12 nurses' own experiences of RWH reforms at two emergency clinics have been investigated. The collected data was later analyzed with content analysis. The result drawn from this study is that nurses have positive experiences of RWH on their overall health as it reduces stress, work overload and increases the time for recovery. RWS is also perceived to have positive effects on private, social and working life. However, RWH was found to be challenging for organizing the day shifts due to reduced overlapping time. Nurses expressed a need to be able to manage administrative tasks and carry out responsibilities without it happening at the expanse of RWH. This emphasized the need for better planning within RWH. Improved overall health and better life quality in turn enabled nurses to feel more energetic and perceive themselves being more empathetic during patient care which also improves patient safety. Better understanding of the phenomena and its effects can hopefully contribute to resolve shortcomings in working environments, which in turn may increase the opportunities for a more prosperous organization and long-term financial sustainability.