Demographic Data Differences in Perceived Control over Nursing Practice among Nurses Caring for Nursing Home Residents

Abstract

Introduction: Control over nursing practice is crucial for improved quality of life for nursing home (NH) residents. Nevertheless, little is known about the association of nurses' demographic data with their perceived control over nursing practice in Jordan and beyond. Therefore, this study aimed at examining the differences in nurses' levels of perceived control over nursing practice based on their demographic characteristics. Methods: This descriptive-correlational study was conducted on a convenience sample of 163 nurses caring for NH residents. Nurses' perceived control over nursing practice was measured by the Control Over Nursing Practice (CONP) scale. Results: The participating nurses were found to have low levels of perceived control over nursing practice which varied between the nurse groups according to gender, level of experience, and type of NHs. Discussion/Conclusion: This study is the first quantitative study to examine association between nurses' demographic characteristics, such as age or years of nursing experience, and their perceived control over nursing practice. Despite the preliminary findings of this study, the findings of this study provide a better understanding of the impact of nurses' sociodemographic and professional characteristics on their levels of perceived control over nursing practice.