Aim: The aim of the study was to develop recommendations for creating a healthy work environment based on current literature for nurses working within the US Military Health System (MHS). However, our findings would likely benefit other nursing populations and environments as well.
Design: Systematic literature review.
Data sources: We conducted a systematic literature search for articles published between January 2010 until January 2024 from five databases: PubMed, Joanna Briggs, Embase, CINAHL and Scopus.
Methods: Articles were screened, selected and extracted using Covidence software. Article findings were synthesized to create recommendations for the development, implementation and measurement of healthy work environments.
Results: Ultimately, a total of 110 articles met the criteria for inclusion in this review. The articles informed 13 recommendations for creating a healthy work environment. The recommendations included ensuring teamwork, mentorship, job satisfaction, supportive leadership, nurse recognition and adequate staffing and resources. Additionally, we identified strategies for implementing and measuring these recommendations.
Conclusions: This thorough systematic review created actionable recommendations for the creation of a healthy work environment. Based on available evidence, implementation of these recommendations could improve nursing work environments.
Impact: This study identifies methods for implementing and measuring aspects of a healthy work environment. Nurse leaders or others can implement the recommendations provided here to develop healthy work environments in their hospitals, clinics or other facilities where nurses practice.
Reporting method: PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
Patient or public contribution: No patient or public contribution.
Keywords: healthy work environment; nurse; nurse work environment; nurse workforce; nursing; systematic review.
Published 2024. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.