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The work, led by primary health care nurse and specialist in educational nursing Dr. José Antonio Zafra, analyzes the working conditions, institutional support, and professional recognition of nurses working in schools. Dr. Zafra is also a member of the national School Nursing Observatory, a key forum for research and the development of this discipline.
The study examines the job satisfaction of school nurses. The results show a high level of satisfaction, although it varies depending on the sector in which they work. The study focuses on three key factors: working conditions, institutional support, and professional recognition.
Nurses in the healthcare sector feel they enjoy a higher professional status than those in the educational sector, but they also report greater work pressure. Conversely, in the educational sector, support from lead or supervising nurses can offset daily routine and improve job perception. To enhance the well-being of this group, the study proposes strengthening professional support networks that encourage interaction and collaboration between school and community nurses.
It also recommends further research to delve into the factors influencing their satisfaction and to design strategies to improve the work environment and the quality of school health services.
Quality of Life
According to the study, professional quality of life also directly influences job satisfaction. Aspects such as workload, contractual conditions, and work–life balance play a decisive role in these professionals’ well-being. The study reveals that more experienced nurses particularly value recognition and professional development opportunities. On the other hand, those working more than 37.5 hours per week report better professional quality of life, although a high workload can lead to stress and dissatisfaction.
Fundamental Role
School nurses play a fundamental role in promoting student health and well-being, handling both emergency care and the management of chronic conditions such as type 1 diabetes and asthma. Despite the importance of their work, they face various challenges that can affect their job satisfaction. Unlike hospital nurses, who work in multidisciplinary teams, school nurses often practice alone, which can lead to professional isolation. Additionally, the monotony of tasks in the educational setting can decrease motivation.
Currently, about half of Spain’s schools have a school nurse, highlighting the need for specific public policies to ensure equitable distribution. Moreover, fostering collaboration between the healthcare and education sectors can improve working conditions and institutional support, thereby increasing job satisfaction and retention among these professionals.
Article Reference
Working Conditions and Well-Being of School Nurses in Spain: Impact on Job Satisfaction and Professional Quality of Life.
Zafra-Agea JA, Ramírez-Baraldes E, Maldonado-Manzano E, Obradors-Rial N, Puiggrós-Binefa A, Colillas-Malet E. Healthcare (Basel). 2025 Feb 4;13(3):323. doi: 10.3390/healthcare13030323. PMID: 39942511. Free PMC article.
